The Detroit techno pioneer, who has died aged 64, blended funk and electronics with information-age philosophy to create music of huge power and influence
Technology
Along with fellow Belleville Three members Kevin Saunderson and Derrick May, he created the Detroit techno sound, releasing music under aliases including Cybotron and Model 500. Atkins was found unresponsive in his hotel room Saturday ahead of a planned performance in Mexico City, and May said, “He never mentioned how sick he was, for years. He just went out and did his job the best way he could. Respect his legacy. Respect the effort. Respect the work. Respect the accomplishments.” Saunderson wrote, “Juan was the originator of Techno, a true visionary who opened the door for so many of us, myself included.” [Media: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs5uqACOY1E&si=1-V9W0iCLcycDZfJ]
World News
US artist known as Model 500 and as one half of the duo Cybotron had huge influence on dance music worldwide