Roland Corporation is pulling out all the stops to celebrate 808 Day, an annual event dedicated to honoring the iconic TR-808 drum machine. This year’s festivities bring together music, fashion, and technology in a series of groundbreaking partnerships.

Highlighting the event is a unique collaboration with New Balance for a special edition sneaker and a new Twitch DJ category. These initiatives not only pay homage to the TR-808’s influence on music but also showcase its impact on various cultural spheres, from skateboarding to street fashion.

New Balance Collaboration

In a nod to the TR-808’s enduring legacy, Roland has teamed up with New Balance to create the Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneaker. This limited-edition shoe celebrates the fusion of music, fashion, and skate culture. Featuring a sleek black design, the sneakers incorporate advanced New Balance technology and elements reminiscent of the TR-808’s retro style. The shoe includes a reinforced toecap, internal foam pods for comfort, and foot-locking straps, making it perfect for both style and performance.

Skateboarding legend Tiago Lemos expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Hip hop has been the soundtrack for my skating, and at the heart of many classics was the 808. To have a collaboration with the legendary Roland 808 on my shoe is an honor.” The collaboration also includes a short film featuring Lemos and DJ Cut Chemist, who emphasized the drum machine’s pivotal role in modern music.

The Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneakers are available through New Balance’s online store, select retail outlets, and Roland’s Tokyo store. In addition to the sneakers, a capsule collection of apparel, including hoodies, t-shirts, and hats, has been launched. This collection is designed to complement the shoes and features combined branding from Roland and New Balance, showcasing a unique blend of music and street fashion.

Twitch Partnership

Taking the celebration to the digital realm, Roland has partnered with Twitch to launch a new DJ category. This initiative, dubbed “808 Live,” will feature an 8-hour programming block on August 8th, showcasing top DJs from around the world. This event coincides with Twitch’s new DJs Category, which provides a platform for DJs to legally livestream using a vast library of popular music, thanks to partnerships with major music labels.

The lineup for 808 Live includes legendary artists such as Grandmaster Flash, DJ Roueche (the official DJ of the Los Angeles Lakers), Skratch Bastid, DJ Melo-D, and DJ Bella Fiasco. This all-day event will be a feast for music lovers, offering a range of performances that highlight the TR-808’s lasting influence across various genres. The 808 Live event will be accessible to a global audience, bringing together music enthusiasts from all corners of the world.

FAQs

What is the significance of 808 Day?
808 Day, celebrated on August 8th, honors the TR-808 drum machine, a revolutionary instrument that has significantly influenced music genres like hip-hop and techno since its release in 1980.

Where can I buy the Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneakers?
The sneakers are available on New Balance’s website, select New Balance stores worldwide, Roland’s retail store in Tokyo, and the Roland Lifestyle web store.

What is the 808 Live event on Twitch?
808 Live is a special 8-hour programming block on Twitch featuring top DJs celebrating the launch of Twitch’s new DJ Category. The event will showcase the influence of the TR-808 on modern music.

Can I watch the 808 Live event if I miss the livestream?
Yes, Twitch typically archives streams, so viewers can watch the performances even after the live event has concluded.

For more information about Roland’s 808 Day celebrations and collaborations, visit the official TR-808 promo page at https://www.roland.com/global/promos/roland_tr-808/.

Conclusion

Roland’s 808 Day celebration underscores the TR-808’s profound impact on music, fashion, and technology. The collaboration with New Balance and the Twitch partnership highlight the drum machine’s cultural significance, proving that the TR-808 continues to inspire innovation and creativity. Whether through a pair of stylish sneakers or a global DJ livestream event, the legacy of the TR-808 remains as vibrant as ever.

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