The Fairlight CMI (Computer Musical Instrument) is a pioneering digital sampling synthesizer developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was one of the first devices to use digital sampling technology, allowing users to record and manipulate sounds. The CMI became popular among musicians and producers for its innovative capabilities, including the ability to play back recorded audio at different pitches. The Fairlight CMI featured a unique interface with a touchscreen and a keyboard, making it user-friendly for its time. It played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music in the 1980s, influencing artists across various genres, including Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush.