The Resurgence of the Roland VG-8: Mk.gee and the New Wave of Guitar Innovation

Mk.gee, a 29-year-old guitarist from New Jersey, has emerged as a significant figure in contemporary music with his debut album, *Two Star & the Dream Police*, released in 2024. Critics have hailed him as a guitar hero, noting his ability to make the instrument produce sounds reminiscent of an orchestra, a snarling animal, and even a radio playing underwater. His collaboration with artists like Bon Iver and Justin Bieber has further solidified his status in the music industry. Central to Mk.gee's distinctive sound is the Roland VG-8, a device that has recently gained renewed attention among musicians.

(The) Atlantic

Originally released in 1995, the Roland VG-8 was designed to emulate various guitar sounds and environments, allowing players to switch between different guitar models and effects electronically. Chris Bristol, former chair and CEO of Roland U.S., described it as a comprehensive toolbox for guitarists. Despite its innovative features, the VG-8 was considered an elitist product, retailing for around $3,000, and came with a complex user manual.

(The) Atlantic

Following Mk.gee's rise to fame, the VG-8 has seen a dramatic increase in demand. Prices for the device, which had previously dropped to around $200, surged to approximately $1,200 by early 2025, with some listings reaching as high as $3,000. Musicians like Kevin Murrell have expressed their determination to acquire the device, highlighting its newfound desirability within the music community. The VG-8's unique sound, characterized by its lo-fi quality, has become a defining feature of Mk.gee's music and has influenced other artists, including Lorde.

(The) Atlantic

The resurgence of the VG-8 reflects a broader trend in music where vintage gear becomes popular again, often driven by emerging artists who discover and utilize forgotten equipment. Cyril Nigg, senior director of analytics at Reverb, noted that such revivals often occur when a new player finds inexpensive gear that significantly influences their sound. However, the VG-8's current popularity is distinct, representing nostalgia for an era when digital technology was still novel.

(The) Atlantic

Paul Youngblood, former president of Roland’s U.S. BOSS division, acknowledged the VG-8's elitist status due to its price and complexity but emphasized its creative potential. Joni Mitchell, a notable user of the VG-8, credited the device with revitalizing her music and allowing her to explore new tunings without the hassle of retuning multiple guitars.

(The) Atlantic

While the VG-8's revival has been largely celebrated, some critics argue that its lo-fi sound may not suit all musical styles, suggesting that its appeal is limited to specific genres or artistic visions.

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• “gave me a shot in the arm about being creative on guitar.” — Paul Youngblood, Former President, Roland U.S. BOSS Division

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• “I wanted to blow chords up in size the way Georgia O’Keeffe blew up the flowers in her paintings, and now that’s possible.” — Joni Mitchell, Musician

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The resurgence of the Roland VG-8, fueled by Mk.gee's innovative sound, illustrates the cyclical nature of music technology and the ongoing quest for new sonic possibilities.

(The) Atlantic