The No.1 website for musicians
© Bettmann/Corbis
The original line-up in 1978: (from L-R) Karl Bartos, Ralf Hutter, Florian Schneider and Wolfgang Flur
Without question, the ultimate synth band, Kraftwerk were formed in 1970, though their breakthrough came in 1974 with the Minimoog-led Autobahn album. Touting them as an influence has become something of a rite of passage for new bands (and not just electronic ones), and their profile rose again this month with the launch of remastered versions of eight album albums from their back catalogue. Co-founder Florian Schneider is no longer involved, but new material is said to be in the pipeline.
"I would say Kraftwerk, Herbie Hancock, and probably Moog himself!" (From @rockengi via Twitter, thanks)
"Kraftwerk , Keith Emerson". (From Philippe via Facebook, thanks!)
"Jean Michel Jarre, Vangelis, Kraftwerk, Herbie Hancock and number one should be Dr.Robert Moog!" (From Peter via Facebook, thanks)
“I saw Kraftwerk on their Autobahn tour, real pioneering stuff. Did I mention Keith Emerson?” (Thanks, bbcoz)
