Juan Atkins, who built Detroit techno, dies at 64

Juan Atkins, the musician credited with creating Detroit techno, died this weekend. He was 64 years old. His passing marks the end of an era for the electronic music scene that originated in the city in the early 1980s.

Atkins helped establish the genre in 1983. He worked alongside Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson to form the group known as the Belleville Three. This trio laid the foundation for a sound that has since spread globally. Atkins released nine albums of music throughout his career. He recorded some of this work as part of the duo Cybotron and other tracks under the name Model 500.

The musician viewed his work as a reflection of technological progress. In a 2015 interview with Michigan Public, Atkins described the music as something born from technology. He noted that it was produced using electronic instruments, computers, sequencers, and drum computers. He stated that the genre developed out of the wider technological movement. Atkins believed music should reflect the shift from an industrial society to one driven by technology. He wanted the music to help prepare people for that future. Growing up in Detroit, he watched technology reshape the auto industry. He used synthesizers and drum machines to imagine what that new world might sound like.

The genre has found a strong following in Europe. In Detroit, the music is celebrated annually during Memorial Day weekend. The event is the Movement Electronic Music Festival, formerly known as the Detroit Electronic Music Festival. Atkins praised the city's unique environment for creativity. He told Michigan Public in 2015 that the atmosphere for electronic music in Detroit is unmatched anywhere else. He called the city a place like no other in terms of creative output.

Tributes emerged quickly on social media from musicians and creators in Detroit. Two of the men who formed the Belleville Three with Atkins issued public statements. Kevin Saunderson posted on his personal Instagram page. He called Atkins the originator of techno and a true visionary. Saunderson said Atkins opened the door for many in the scene, including himself. He expressed gratitude for the friendship and guidance Atkins provided. Saunderson noted that they shared a journey that changed music forever.

Derrick May released a video statement on his personal Instagram page. May said Atkins never mentioned being sick for years. He stated that Atkins simply went out and did his job as best he could. May urged the public to respect Atkins' legacy, effort, work, and accomplishments. The statements from his two longtime collaborators underscore the personal and professional impact Atkins had on the electronic music community.