Apple drops the beat in its first documentary, 808: The Movie

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The 808 drum machine changed music forever.
The 808 drum machine changed music forever.
Photo: Beats 1

The first documentary from Apple has finally arrived — and it has nothing to do with iPhones or Macs. The film, titled 808: The Movie, chronicles Roland’s legendary TR-808 drum machine and how it influenced the music industry from the ’80s all the way up to today.

Narrated by Beats 1 DJ Zane Lowe, the Apple Music exclusive features appearances by Pharrell Williams, David Guetta, Rick Rubin, Diplo, Questlove, Phil Collins, Beastie Boys and more.

Check out the trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMPzuRWoNgE&ebc=ANyPxKrXvUg8EFAu9caVU4Fwxag5XSK6UdH6Dn9iTR3gc_W2zIxiuyYKyGafaC2g5GaZL3nGIhJ5WMfC3ujC7vdsYlr2YXZgzA

And here’s the documentary description, from the Beats 1 Radio YouTube page:

“808, the heart of the beat that changed music. The acclaimed documentary that chronicles the incredible legacy of the TR808 drum machine will be exclusively available on Apple Music December 9th 2016. Discover the iconic records, artists and producers influenced by the 808’s unique beats and find out the secret behind its sudden discontinuation.”

The movie is available for pre-order on iTunes for $16.99, but if you have an Apple Music subscription you can watch it for free right now.

808 was created by You Know Films in association with Atlantic Films. This marks the first time Apple has made its own original content. The iPhone-maker is also working on a TV show called Planet of the Apps, a Carpool Karaoke show and a TV series produced by Dr. Dre.

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