Mike Wuerthele
Alexander Dunn's documentary "808: The Movie" focusing on the legendary Roland-808 drum machine has been released exclusively on Apple Music, and will be available for download or rent on the iTunes Movie store on Dec. 16.
The TR-808 electronic rhythm composer released in 1980 jumpstarted a music revolution that continues to echo through a variety of genres to this day. From Afrika Bambaataa's "Planet Rock," to rap, R&B and electronica, the 808's drum and bass sounds influenced and inspired music producers for more than three decades.
Demand for the real 808 sound continues to this day: street prices for a used machine can hit upwards of $10,000.
Narrated by Beats 1 DJ Zane Lowe, "808: The Movie" offers a genre-spanning look at the drum machine's origins and how it continues to shape modern musical tastes. Interviews in the film include Afrika Bombaataa, Pharrell Williams, Rick Rubin, Phil Collins, Beastie Boys, Questlove, Lil' Jon, Diplo, Goldie, David Guetta, Richie Hawtin, Felix Da Housecat and more.
Apple Music and iTunes host the soundtrack to the documentary. The film can also be pre-ordered for $16.99 on the iTunes Movies store.
AppleInsider Staff
Malcolm Owen
Oliver Haslam
Andrew O'Hara
Wesley Hilliard
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
20 Comments
$16.99, why?
$9.99 for a "film" like this makes more sense. Or how about, you know, acquiring Netflix and putting the doc where people care about docs: Netflix
Is this an Apple production or something?
I was just wondering why it's being mentioned so much on this site. I mean, plenty of movies get released all of time, and none of them get any mentions.
Sounds good.
I wish Apple created more exclusive content and offered them free on the TV App. It'll bring in more users and entice them to iTunes movies, services etc. Not sure if it makes sense in the long run though.
Strange how Apple VIDEO productions are all arriving on Apple MUSIC while they release the TV App.
Something's going on....