From humble beginnings to electronic music giant: The story of Roland
The story of Roland begins in 1930s Osaka, Japan, where Ikutaro Kakehashi founded the Ace Electrical Instrument Corporation. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing organs and wind instruments, but Kakehashi’s vision was far grander. He dreamt of creating electronic instruments that would revolutionize the music industry.

In 1964, the company changed its name to Roland, and the rest, as they say, is history. Roland’s first major success came with the release of the TR-808 drum machine in 1980. This iconic instrument, with its distinctive sounds, became a staple in countless genres, from hip-hop and techno to pop and rock.

Throughout the 80s and 90s, Roland continued to innovate, releasing groundbreaking synthesizers like the Juno-106, the Jupiter-8, and the TB-303. These instruments shaped the sounds of countless artists, from Depeche Mode and New Order to Daft Punk and Aphex Twin.

Today, Roland remains a leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments. From keyboards and synthesizers to drum machines and samplers, Roland’s products are used by musicians of all levels, from beginners to professionals. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality has ensured its place as a true icon in the world of music.