A Short History of the 909 Drum Patterns Explained
The Roland TR-909 is a drum machine that has been a staple of electronic music since its release in 1983. It’s known for its iconic, unique sound, and its drum patterns have been used in countless songs across a wide range of genres.
The 909's sounds are characterized by their clean, sharp, and almost robotic quality. This is due to the use of digital synthesis instead of acoustic samples. Each sound has a distinct character, from the booming bass drum to the crisp snare and the high-pitched hi-hat. The 909’s distinctive drum patterns, made with this sound, helped to define the sound of electronic music in the 80s and 90s.
The 909 was used by artists such as New Order, Depeche Mode, and Kraftwerk, and it quickly became a favorite among electronic music producers. In the 1990s, the 909's influence spread to other genres, such as hip-hop and house.
In the 2000s, the 909 experienced a resurgence in popularity. It was embraced by a new generation of electronic music producers, who were drawn to its classic sound and its ability to create unique and interesting drum patterns. Today, the 909 is still a popular choice for electronic music producers, and its influence can be heard in music of all genres.
The Basics of 909 Drum Patterns
Most 909 drum patterns are built around a basic 4-on-the-floor beat, with a kick drum on every beat and a snare drum on the second and fourth beats.
Many 909 drum patterns use a closed hi-hat pattern, with the hi-hat playing on the eighth notes. The use of the 909's other sounds, like the rim shot, toms, and cymbal, adds variety and texture to the patterns.
Key Characteristics of 909 Drum Patterns
909 drum patterns are known for their minimalist, repetitive nature. They often feature simple, straightforward rhythms that are easy to dance to. However, they are also surprisingly versatile, and they can be used to create a wide range of moods and atmospheres.
Types of 909 Drum Patterns
There are many different types of 909 drum patterns, but some of the most common include:
- **The Classic 4-on-the-floor beat:** This is the most basic 909 pattern, and it is the foundation for many other patterns. It is characterized by a strong bass drum on every beat and a snare drum on the second and fourth beats.
- **The 808-style pattern:** This pattern is similar to the 4-on-the-floor pattern, but it often features a more pronounced bass drum and a more subdued snare drum. It is often used in hip-hop and house music.
- **The breakbeat pattern:** This pattern features a breakbeat, which is a short section of music that is usually characterized by a fast tempo and a lot of rhythmic variations. It is often used in breakbeat and jungle music.
909 Drum Patterns in Popular Music
909 drum patterns have been used in countless popular songs over the years. Here are a few examples:
- “Blue Monday” by New Order: This song features a classic 4-on-the-floor 909 pattern that is widely considered to be one of the most iconic drum patterns of all time.
- “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League: This song features a driving 909 beat that helped to define the sound of synth-pop music in the 1980s.
- “Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa and Soulsonic Force: This song features a 909 pattern that is a cornerstone of hip-hop music.
- “Acid Tracks” by Phuture: This song features a 909 pattern with a prominent acid bassline, which helped to define the sound of acid house music.
The 909 is still a popular choice for electronic music producers, and its influence can be heard in music of all genres. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just getting started, the 909 is an essential tool for anyone who wants to create compelling electronic music.
