Juan Atkins, Detroit techno pioneer, dies at 64

Culture · First reported 1 Nov, 18:31 · Updated 18:46

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

Juan Atkins, a co-creator of Detroit techno and member of the Belleville Three, has died at 64. His agency confirmed his death; reports describe his work with Cybotron and Model 500 and his influence on dance music.

Atkins’ agency confirmed his death at 64; his booking agency said the news Sunday, while Greensmith Artists told Resident Advisor he was found unresponsive in a Mexico City hotel and later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Atkins formed Cybotron with Richard Davis and was part of the Belleville Three with Kevin Saunderson and Derrick May; Cybotron released “Clear” in 1983.
Atkins revived Cybotron in 2023, and Missy Elliott’s 2005 song “Lose Control” sampled “Clear.”