OK, I give, 808 is more a series of numbers (or one number) than a word, but still, what does it mean? I’m talking 808 as in the thing Kelis is back with cuz she’s bossy or the things that accompany heartbreak in Kanye’s most recent album. I suspect this is the kind of thing one might find on UrbanDictionary.com…

Turns out, 808 means several things. The two citations above refer to the Roland TR-808, “a revolutionary computer-controlled rhythm machine which offers up to 768 measures of programming at a time.” This item might also be known as a sweet ass drum machine. More specifically, 808 refers to the bass drum track from this machine, which is apparently a popular sample.

Here’s a documentary about the TR-808 (slight music-related geekiness and 11 minutes required to enjoy):

The collective consciousness behind UrbanDictionary.com also claims 808 is the penal code for disturbing the peace, however I found no evidence to corroborate this claim.

808 is also the area code for the entire state of Hawaii. Incidentally, Montana is another state that, despite its size, has only one area code.

- N