The term Detroit techno refers to a style of techno music in the tradition of early (1985-1995) techno recordings from Detroit, Michigan, not necessarily indicating the music's geographic origin. A discriminating trait of Detroit techno is the use of analogue synthesizers and early drum machines for its production or - increasingly - the digital emulation of the characteristic sound of those machines.
Detroit techno is described as a combination of Kraftwerk and George Clinton thrown into an elevator by legendary DJ/producer Derrick May. Notable producers include:
- Juan Atkins
- Kevin Saunderson
- Derrick May
- Carl Craig
- Richie Hawtin
- Eddie Fowlkes
- Jeff Mills
- Mike Banks