Tributes paid after death of techno co-founder Juan Atkins, age 64: “A true visionary who opened the door for so many of us”

Techno pioneer Juan Atkins has died aged 64, prompting tributes from musicians and Detroit’s mayor. His experimental electronic sound helped shape Detroit techno and influenced generations of artists.

Atkins was part of Cybotron, formed with Richard Davis, and released solo music as Model 500; he also helped form the Belleville Three with Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. Cybotron’s tracks included “Clear”, later sampled by Missy Elliott, while Atkins continued recording and touring for more than four decades. His agency said he was found unresponsive in a Mexico City hotel before a scheduled performance and later died in hospital.