My first boombox was called a Tensai Rhytm Machine. It looked like a standard boombox but it also allowed you to split the stereo into two recordable mono tracks and included five or six pre-set rhythms, which if you held two of the buttons down together allowed to ‘mix’ the rhythms. Prior to the invention of the first Tascam 4 track portastudio’s this was the first thing I owned that allowed me to record music with some basic overdubs and a rhythm track. Many happy hours were spent in my bedroom trying to be the next Durutti Column. Sadly my guitar playing never quite made the grade…

This video documentary created by National Public Radio in the US (who also produce some amazing free live concert podcasts avialable on iTunes), is a great 10 minute history of the boombox. It’s a shame that JVC never capitalised on the brand fame they aquired amongst the Hip-Hop community. How many brands since have tried to get rappers to positively namecheck them in a song?