A pioneer who helped define the worldwide techno movement, Juan Atkins has died aged 64.
The producer was in Mexico City to play at YuYu Cine Club when he was found unresponsive in his hotel. His passing has been confirmed by his management to Resident Advisor on Sunday 1st November. Juan was rushed to hospital when he was found but was later declared dead. It is currently unknown what happened leading up to his death.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Juan Atkins became one of the most influential members of Detroit’s electronic music scene. He started off playing music with Cybotron – a project he and Richard Davis founded together. He would go onto create a sound that would help define the new genre. He released ‘No UFOs’ in 1985, which became a key moment in the beginning of Detroit techno. He would continue to innovate electronic music. He was also a part of the influential Belleville Three with Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. The three had known each other since school and became synonymous with the creation of Techno. Outside of producing, he also created Metroplex Records. His 1988 song ‘Techno Music’ became a pivotal moment in the genre’s history. It featured on the Virgin Records compilation album ‘Techno! The New Dance Sound Of Detroit’ which helped popularise the name.
Kevin Saunderson released a touching statement about his friend.
“Juan was the originator of Techno, a true visionary who opened the door for so many of us, myself included.”
Saunderson continued:
“I’ll never forget how he showed me how to finish my first record, ‘Triangle of Love’. That meant a lot to me then, and it still does today,” he continued. “We shared a journey that changed music forever, and I’ll always be grateful for his friendship, guidance and everything he gave to our scene.”