Industry Jun 9, 2026

“The union passed a motion to ban the use of synths, drum machines and any electronic devices”: the day the 'Loony' Musician's Union tried to kill the synthesizer

And it wasn't the first time the UK union had it in for technology

Originally published by MusicRadar
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“The union passed a motion to ban the use of synths, drum machines and any electronic devices”: the day the 'Loony' Musician's Union tried to kill the synthesizer
A historical event saw the UK's Musicians' Union attempt to prohibit the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. This motion was passed by the union, indicating a significant opposition to new music technology at the time.

This attempt to ban electronic devices was not an isolated incident, as the union had previously shown resistance towards technological advancements in music production. The event occurred on what would have been Bob Moog's birthday, the renowned inventor of the Moog synthesizer. Originally reported by MusicRadar.