Techno music pioneer Juan Atkins dies at 64

American music producer and electronic music pioneer Juan Atkins has died at the age of 64, leaving the global techno community mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures.

Atkins reportedly died in his sleep on Saturday, October 31. His death was confirmed on Sunday, November 1, by his longtime friend and fellow Detroit musician Eddie Fowlkes.

According to reports, Atkins was found unresponsive in his hotel room in Mexico City. He was scheduled to perform at YuYu Cine Club during his visit. Initial reports suggested that he had suffered a heart attack. He was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Atkins was widely recognised as one of the founding figures of Detroit techno. He formed the legendary Belleville Three alongside his high school friends Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. The trio played a defining role in shaping electronic music by combining European electronic influences with Chicago house and funk.

His musical journey began gaining recognition in the early 1980s. He co-founded the electronic music project Cybotron with Richard Davis in 1980. The group produced influential tracks, including ‘Alleys of Your Mind’ and the iconic 1983 release ‘Clear’.

In 1985, Atkins established his own record label, Metroplex, and released music under the name Model 500. His landmark track ‘No UFOs’ further strengthened his reputation as an innovator in electronic music.

Throughout his career, he also explored different musical identities, including Infiniti and Audio Tech. He later collaborated with German producer Moritz von Oswald through the electronic project Borderland.

Following news of his death, fellow musician Kevin Saunderson paid tribute to the late producer on social media. He described Atkins as the originator of techno and a visionary whose work opened doors for generations of electronic music artists.

Saunderson also recalled how Atkins helped him complete his first record, ‘Triangle of Love’, describing the experience as something he would never forget.

Details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been officially announced by his family.