The 1990s were a significant decade for the development and popularization of techno music. Techno originated in Detroit, Michigan, in the 1980s and gained global recognition in the ’90s, evolving into various subgenres and styles. Here are some notable subgenres and artists that were influential during that era.
Detroit Techno: Detroit played a crucial role in the birth of techno, and artists like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson pioneered the genre. Their innovative tracks, such as “Strings of Life” by Derrick May, set the foundation for techno music.
Acid Techno: Acid techno emerged in the late ’80s and early ’90s, characterized by the distinctive squelching sound of the Roland TB-303 synthesizer. Artists like Josh Wink, Hardfloor, and Plastikman (aka Richie Hawtin) embraced this sound and created captivating tracks.
Hardcore Techno: Hardcore techno, also known as gabber, emerged in the early ’90s, primarily in the Netherlands. It is characterized by fast, pounding beats and aggressive synth lines. Producers like Rotterdam Terror Corps, DJ Promo, and The Prophet were prominent figures in this genre.
Ambient Techno: Ambient techno explored the more atmospheric and introspective side of the genre. Artists like The Orb, Aphex Twin, and Biosphere produced ambient-influenced tracks that created a more relaxed and immersive listening experience.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of techno subgenres that thrived in the 1990s. The era was marked by experimentation, innovation, and the rise of electronic music culture, which continues to influence the genre to this day.
Here are some iconic techno tracks from the 1990s that helped shape the genre.
Joey Beltram – Energy Flas
Jeff Mills – The Bells
Laurent Garnier – The Man With The Red Face
Plastikman – Spastik
Robert Armani – Circus Bells (Hardfloor Remix)
Daft Punk – Da Funk
Josh Wink – Higher State Of Consciousness
Paperclip People – Throw
CJ Bolland – Sugar Is Sweeter (Armand Van Helden Remix)
Underworld – Born Slippy (Nuxx)
Aphex Twin – Window Licker
Speedy j – pull over
DHS – House Of God
Adam Beyer – Drum Code 1 (Acid Techno 1995)
