The godfather of Songcrafters has died: Ikutaro Kakehashi

[Ted]

I think it's safe to say that, if not for Ikutaro Kakehashi, this site wouldn't exist and many of us would never have known each other. Because that's the way the universe works.


R.I.P. Ikutaro Kakehashi
http://www.stereogum.com/1932963/r-i-p-ikutaro-kakehashi/obit/

Kakehashi left Ace Tone and Hammond in 1972 to found the Roland Corporation, and under his leadership, the company created iconic synthesizers and drum machines like the TB-303, the TR-909, and of course the TR-808. Although it was initially seen as a commercial failure and discontinued in 1983 after only three years on the market, the 808 became a defining element in the sounds of hip-hop and dance music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIS-o_--wqY

[Johnny Robbo]

A sad loss... and until now I had no idea who he was or even that he existed (to my shame).

Roland were an important company in my development as a musician: I've owned and played through countless BOSS pedals (and never heard a bad sounding one, at that), but it was the Roland/Boss DR5 drums machine/sequencer that taught me how to programme drums & keyboard parts. It was my "backing band" for my first forays into recording 20+ years ago.

[Ted]

...it was the Roland/Boss DR5 drums machine/sequencer that taught me how to programme drums & keyboard parts. It was my "backing band" for my first forays into recording 20+ years ago.

Similar here. I cut my teeth on The Roland TR-505. I love that the Micro BR has an 808 drum kit, but I've never quite wanted to use it on a final recording.

808 Fest anyone?

[chapperz66]

Sad although I wouldn't have been able to name him. I have passed a frightening amount of money to Roland over the years.  In addition to the BR1180 and BR1600 there was a Juno60 (bought new in the 80's and only recently sold), a Fantom Xa and FantomG6 (both of which I still use most days), a GR20 guitar synth and more boss effects boxes than I can recall.

I always registered my purchases and eventually Roland actually sent me a letter with a named personal contact at their Swansea UK base.  Made me feel like a valued customer.