Who are the greatest techno producers and DJs of all time?

Techno is one of electronic music's foundational genres, born in Detroit and evolved across the globe. These are the producers and DJs who gave it its power, vision and legacy.

Jeff Mills

Detroit-born DJ and producer known as 'The Wizard,' celebrated for extraordinary technical skill and innovative performances.

1/16

Richie Hawtin

Canadian DJ known for minimalist techno as Plastikman and groundbreaking conceptual live performances.

2/16

Carl Cox

British DJ known as 'The King of Techno' and one of the greatest live techno performers in history.

3/16

Juan Atkins

Detroit producer who invented techno music as Model 500 in the early 1980s, earning the title 'Originator.'

4/16

Derrick May

Detroit producer (Rhythim Is Rhythim) who co-created techno's emotional dimension with 'Strings of Life.'

5/16

Kevin Saunderson

Detroit producer (Inner City) who helped bring techno closer to pop with globally successful crossover hits.

6/16

Robert Hood

Detroit producer and M-Plant label founder known for stripped-down, minimalist techno that influenced a generation.

7/16

Underground Resistance

Detroit collective led by Mad Mike Banks known for militant, politically charged, powerful techno.

8/16

Dave Clarke

British DJ known as 'The Baron of Techno' for his hard-edged sets and influential radio show.

9/16

Ben Klock

German DJ and Berghain resident known for precise, relentless techno sets that define the Berlin sound.

10/16

Marcel Dettmann

German DJ and Berghain resident known for brooding, introspective, industrial-tinged techno.

11/16

Nina Kraviz

Russian DJ and producer known for unpredictable, dark, and seductive techno performances.

12/16

Surgeon

British producer Anthony Child known for dense, industrial-influenced techno.

13/16

Laurent Garnier

French DJ who was a key figure in bringing techno to Europe in the early 1990s.

14/16

Speedy J

Dutch producer Jochem Paap who was one of the first European techno artists signed to Warp Records.

15/16

Len Faki

German DJ known for hard, rave-influenced techno sets at Berghain and international festivals.

16/16