The object
Roger Linn invented the LM-1 Drum Computer, the first programmable sampled-sound drum machine, and designed its LinnDrum successors. His company history identifies the machine’s use on numerous 1980s hit records, while NAMM credits it with opening a new era of electronic dance music and sampling for DJs.
01
What Roger did
invented the LM-1 Drum Computer, the first programmable drum machine using sampled sounds
02
Why it matters
The LM-1 and LinnDrum became defining rhythmic hardware on 1980s pop recordings and an influential sampling platform.
03
Living-status check
Roger Linn’s official site records his first-person January 2025 commentary, August 2025 interview, and May 2026 LinnStrument firmware release.