The influential producer and founder of Metroplex was found unresponsive in a hotel in Mexico City. Juan Atkins, regarded as one of the pioneers of techno, has passed away at the age of 64. The Detroit native was found unresponsive in his hotel room on November 1 in Mexico City. It was confirmed by his management that he was rushed to hospital after being found unresponsive in his hotel room ahead of an appearance at YuYu Cine Club. His cause of death has not been revealed.

Atkins started making electronic music in the early 1980s alongside Richard Davis. They pioneered a sound that would help lay down the foundations of Detroit techno. He released the iconic ‘No UFOs’ in 1985. Alongside Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson, Atkins became part of the Belleville Three. They met whilst attending school together.

He also went onto start Metroplex Records. He released the iconic ‘Techno Music’ in 1988. This would help solidify his legacy as he helped create the terminology that would define an entire movement after being featured on Virgin Records ‘Techno! The New Dance Sound Of Detroit’ compilation. Often dubbed the godfather of techno, Atkins leaves behind a legacy.

Kevin Saunderson, who is also part of the Belleville Three, has paid an emotional tribute to his ‘brother’.
“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 continues. “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.”