Roland’s TR-808 Rhythm Composer, which laid the foundation for some of hip hop music’s most iconic tracks, was the inspiration behind the name of Tiago Lemos’ second signature shoe. Since its global introduction in 1980, the TR-808, commonly called “the 808,” has shaped the creation of various music genres, paving the way for the hip hop and techno movements for nearly a half century.
The machine’s impact on the genre has been likened to the Stratocaster’s impact on rock and roll – it’s difficult to imagine one without the other. Lemos, who grew up skateboarding in the rugged streets of Brazil, was heavily influenced by videos that featured hip hop produced with the 808. In 2024, Lemos’ homage to the iconic beat machine comes full circle with the release of the NM 808 x Roland colorway.