Juan Atkins, Pioneer of Techno Music, Passes Away at 64

Juan Atkins, a pioneer of techno music from Detroit, has died at 64, according to his agency. He was found unresponsive in his hotel room before a scheduled performance in Mexico City and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Atkins began his music career in 1980 when he teamed up with Richard Davis to form the group Cybotron. Their 1983 hit, “Clear,” became a defining track for the techno genre. Along with classmates Kevin Saunderson and Derrick May, Atkins was part of the “Belleville Three,” who are credited with creating techno music.

Atkins is also known for coining the term “techno” with his 1988 track “Techno Music,” featured in the compilation album “Techno! The New Dance Sound Of Detroit.” His contributions to music have left a lasting impact on the genre.

In a tribute on Facebook, Saunderson described Atkins as a visionary who opened doors for many artists in the music industry. The agency Greensmith Artists shared their sorrow on Instagram, reflecting on the many memories created throughout Atkins’ career.