Ikutaro Kakehashi

Ikutaro Kakehashi was a Japanese engineer, entrepreneur, and founder of the Roland Corporation. He was instrumental in the development of electronic musical instruments and contributed significantly to the music industry with innovations such as the TR-808 drum machine and MIDI technology.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. I Believe In Music

    My Encounters with Music and Musicians

    This insightful memoir delves into the life and career of a pioneering figure in the music technology industry, chronicling his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a visionary entrepreneur. It explores the challenges and triumphs faced while revolutionizing the world of electronic music instruments, highlighting the passion and innovation that drove him to create groundbreaking products that transformed the music landscape. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the narrative captures the essence of creativity and determination, offering an inspiring testament to the power of believing in one's dreams and the profound impact of music on human experience.

  2. 2. So Sad To Fall In Battle

    A memoir tracing an inventor’s journey from a modest wartime childhood in Japan to founding pioneering electronic-instrument companies, detailing the development of iconic drum machines, synthesizers, and the push to establish the MIDI standard. It combines technical insight, entrepreneurial lessons, and personal anecdotes to show how persistent innovation, collaboration, and market instincts reshaped modern music production. Candid about successes and setbacks, the narrative reveals the creative drive and business decisions behind technologies that transformed popular music worldwide.