If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. To really bring the beat in a sound system, you’re going ...

In 1921, Paul ‘Spotts’ Emrick decided that the “All-American” Marching Band needed something to set them apart from other bands. Emrick’s idea called for a bass drum larger than any other. The idea ...

Something special happened in UK music in the early ‘90s. A new inner-city soundtrack was forming, fusing the last 20 years of Black music and youth culture. Reggae, rare groove, hip-hop, soul, acid ...

John Robichaux's orchestra circa 1896. Seated at left is Edward 'Dee Dee' Chandler, with his primitive drum set. (James Karst) Great innovations were being made in American popular music in the late ...