What are 808s?

When music producers are talking about 808s they often refer to electronic drum sounds made with "Roland's TR-808 Rhythm composer" drum machine. The Roland TR-808 drum machine first appeared on the scene in 1980 but was later discontinued in 1983 when Roland Corporation stopped its production during the time.

However, over the years Roland Corporation launched a new product line of the classic drum machine and rebranded it as "Roland AIRA TR-8", which not only features the TR-808 drum machine but also incorporates the TR-909 drum machine.

The meaning of 808 in hip-hop music​

In the context of hip-hop music, the meaning of 808 (or alternatively 808s) may not necessarily refer to the entire Roland TR-808 drum machine as it would in other music production discussions. Instead, when hip-hop producers mention "808 drums" they are often talking about 808 Bass drums in particular, due to their frequent use in the genre of rap music.

Frequently used 808 drum samples​

Quite interestingly though, the most used drum sounds out of the Roland 808 drum machine are:

• 808 bass drum
• 808 snare drum
• 808 clap Drum

Of course, there are instances where some music producers may use TR-808 hi-hats or TR-808 percussion samples but it goes without saying the kick, snare, and clap sounds are usually the go-to-sounds where most of the creativity starts from in terms of drum programming or drum sequencing. Furthermore, in some scenarios music producers may feel the need to layer 808 drum samples to give the sound a little bit of weight or precisely for achieving their coveted signature sound.