Kraftwerk’s 1981 album, Computer World, was released during a time when computers were just beginning to shape the world. The album’s first single, “Pocket Calculator,” utilized the Casio fx-501P programmable calculator in its recording. Despite being known for their precision-obsessed German stereotype, Kraftwerk recorded a Japanese version of the song, “Dentaku,” as Japanese companies like Casio were dominating the personal-electronics market. They even commissioned a special calculator from Casio, the VL-80 model, which could function as a musical synthesizer. Kraftwerk wanted their fans to play their hits on calculators, so they provided special instructions, similar to sheet music. As the 40th anniversary of Computer World approaches, perhaps it’s time to bring calculators back on stage for their performances.
https://www.openculture.com/2019/06/when-kraftwerk-issued-their-own-pocket-calculator-synthesizer.html