Long time producer on the Detroit music scene, Ralphael “808the don” Cleveland has a long track record with some of the city’s hottest artists. 808 has always included music into his life, as a musician, and eventually as a producer. The name “808” was given as a signature of how well he would make TR-808 “like” drums, without ever having that sound-and also because his date of birth is 8/08.
His career as a producer is quite creditable, as many of the acts he’s had the opportunity to work with, are well reknown and respected in music. Starting at 11, playing in the school band, he has played an instrument through every year of school, from the drums and percussion to the mellophone and french horn. 808 has looked up to artists and musicians such as Teddy Riley, Dr. Dre, Bryan-Michael Cox, Rodney Jerkins, Pharell Williams, Quincy Jones, J-Dilla, and many others.
In music, he has worked with artists like Big Proof (R.I.P.), Fastlife Fame, 40Flame, Drunken Master, Fuse Da Big Shot, J-Deago, Boogie Bandero, 606, IronFist, and a host of others.