Juan Atkins, 64, who created techno in 1983, dies

Juan Atkins, the Detroit musician credited with creating techno, died over the weekend at age 64. Industry peers and fans recognize him as the originator of the sound that began in the city.

Atkins formed the Belleville Three in 1983 alongside Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. This trio laid the groundwork for the genre. He released nine albums during his career. He worked first with the duo Cybotron and later under the alias Model 500.

Atkins drew inspiration from the shift from an industrial economy to a technological age. Growing up in Detroit, he watched technology reshape the auto industry. He used synthesizers, drum machines, and computers to imagine the sound of that new world.

In a 2015 interview with Michigan Public, Atkins described the music as born from technology. He noted that it was produced from electronic instruments, computers, and sequencers. He believed the music should reflect societal transformation and help prepare people for the future.

Techno has become a global phenomenon, particularly in Europe. Detroit celebrates the genre during the Movement Electronic Music Festival each Memorial Day weekend. The event was formerly known as the Detroit Electronic Music Festival.

Atkins praised the city's creative environment in the same 2015 interview. He said the atmosphere for electronic music in Detroit is unmatchable and unlike any other place.

Tributes appeared on social media from Detroit musicians. Saunderson posted on his personal Instagram page that Atkins was a true visionary who opened the door for many. May shared a video statement noting that Atkins worked for years without mentioning his illness. May urged listeners to respect the legacy, effort, and work.