mpc 2000xl

The MPC 2000XL: A Groove-Making Machine

The MPC 2000XL, released in 1997, was a game changer for music production. This iconic sampler and sequencer wasn’t just a tool; it became a symbol of a revolution in hip hop and electronic music.

A Little History:

The MPC 2000XL was a successor to the original MPC 60, a groundbreaking machine that enabled musicians to “sample” snippets of existing sounds and use them to create new music. This was a huge departure from traditional songwriting, allowing artists to take the sounds of the world around them and transform them into something entirely new.

The Rise of the Beatmaker:

The MPC 2000XL helped usher in the era of the “beatmaker.” Producers like J Dilla, Madlib, and Timbaland pushed the boundaries of the machine’s capabilities, creating innovative, complex, and deeply soulful rhythms. The MPC became the central hub for creating iconic hip hop beats, but its versatility allowed it to also influence genres like electronic, jazz, and even classical music.

Funny Facts & Legendary Tales:

• J Dilla’s “Finger Drums”: J Dilla, widely considered one of the greatest producers of all time, was known for his intricate, near-impossible drum patterns. He would meticulously program each drum hit on the MPC, using his fingers to tap out complex rhythms with incredible speed and precision.
• Madlib’s “Beat Tapes”: Madlib, another icon of beatmaking, had a legendary work ethic. He would record his beats on a multitude of cassette tapes, filling up entire suitcases with them! This dedication and commitment helped him create a vast and influential catalog of music.
• Timbaland’s “Reverse Engineering”: Timbaland, a master of innovative production techniques, often utilized the MPC to reverse existing samples, creating haunting, psychedelic soundscapes. His signature “Timbaland sound” was a direct result of exploring the machine’s capabilities and pushing the boundaries of what it could do.

A Legacy of Innovation:

The MPC 2000XL helped define an era of musical innovation. Its influence continues to be felt today, with countless producers and artists using its successors (like the MPC Live) to create groundbreaking music across a wide range of genres. The MPC 2000XL’s legacy is a testament to the power of creativity and the impact that a single machine can have on the world of music.