Kevin Saunderson: “Techno is more than just music; it’s culture, history, and a movement that deserves recognition”

Blackout Mixmag is an editorial series dedicated to Black artists, issues and stories, first launched in 2020. Our next round of features are co-guest edited by Kevin Saunderson and Kwame Safo (AKA Funk Butcher). Read all of the previously published pieces here.

I wanted to do this series because Black History Month is a time to educate and celebrate, not just for Black people, but for everyone. The history of our music—Techno—started in Detroit, built on innovation, resilience, and creativity. It’s important to acknowledge where it came from, who pioneered it, and how it continues to influence the world. This is more than just music; it’s culture, history, and a movement that deserves recognition.

Dance music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It’s more than just sound—it’s a feeling, an energy, and a way to bring people together. Growing up in Detroit, I was inspired by the fusion of different genres—funk, soul, disco, and electronic experimentation—all of which shaped the foundation of techno. For me, dance music represents freedom, creativity, and expression. It’s a universal language that breaks barriers, unites cultures, and gives people a space to lose themselves and find connection at the same time. That’s why it’s always been so important to me.

Being part of the foundation of dance music, especially as one of the pioneers of techno in Detroit, has been an incredible journey. When we started, it was all about raw creativity, experimenting with machines, and pushing boundaries with sound. There were no rules—just passion and innovation. Over the years, I’ve seen the industry evolve from underground scenes to a global phenomenon. Technology has changed the way music is made, shared, and experienced, and while that has opened new doors, it has also presented challenges, like the commercialization of the sound and the need to preserve its roots. Despite the changes, the spirit of dance music remains—it’s still about connection, energy, and the freedom to express.

Documenting dance music’s Black origins is crucial because history has a way of erasing or overlooking the contributions of Black artists, especially in electronic music. Techno was born in Detroit, created by Black visionaries who took inspiration from funk, soul, and electronic experimentation to craft something entirely new. Over time, as the genre gained global recognition, its roots weren’t always acknowledged. It’s important to tell the full story—not just to give credit where it’s due, but to inspire future generations of Black artists and ensure that the culture, innovation, and spirit behind the music are never forgotten.

Advocating for a fair industry is important because dance music was built on inclusivity, creativity, and freedom—but too often, the artists who pioneered it don’t get the recognition, opportunities, or financial support they deserve. The industry should reflect the diversity of the culture it came from, ensuring that Black artists, and all underrepresented voices, have equal access to platforms, fair pay, and ownership of their work. Without fairness, the essence of dance music—community, innovation, and expression—gets lost. We have to push for change so that the next generation can create without barriers and truly thrive.

With this series, I hope to educate, inspire, and preserve the true history of dance music. I want people to understand where this music came from, who created it, and why it matters—not just for Black artists, but for the entire global music community. This is about celebrating the culture, giving credit to the pioneers, and making sure the next generation knows the roots of the movement. Ultimately, I want to bridge the past, present, and future of dance music, ensuring its legacy is honored and its message of unity and creativity continues to thrive.

I hope to see a music industry that is more fair, inclusive, and respectful of the culture and artists who built it. That means better representation for Black artists in the spaces they helped create, fair compensation for their contributions, and more opportunities for new talent to break through without barriers. The industry also needs to do a better job of preserving history and giving credit where it’s due. If we can create a system that values artistry over trends and community over profit, the music will thrive in a way that stays true to its roots while continuing to evolve.

Kevin Saunderson is a techno and house legend, follow him on Instagram