The melotron is an electronic musical instrument that uses tape loops to reproduce sounds of real instruments. It was invented in the early 1960s and became popular for its ability to create rich, layered sounds. Musicians can play it by pressing keys, which trigger the playback of recorded audio samples. The melotron is often associated with the progressive rock genre, featuring prominently in the works of bands like The Beatles and King Crimson. Its unique sound has made it a favorite among composers and producers, contributing to its lasting influence in music production.