WORLD TECHNO DAY
On December 9th, World Techno Day celebrates electronic dance music. The day also encourages learning more about techno and listening to this genre of music.
Techno is a genre of music produced by electronic instruments, such as synthesizers, sequencers, or drum machines. This dance music is characterized by a repetitive four on the floor beat. The tempo usually ranges from 120 to 150 beats per minute. Techno music is usually produced for a continuous set played by a DJ. Dance clubs, and anywhere else that invites people to hit the dance floor, usually play techno music.
Techno music is an offshoot of house music, which is considered more soulful. House music originated in Chicago in the 1970s. Techno music came about in the 1980s in Detroit. Young African Americans earn the credit for inventing techno. Juan Atkins is considered by many as the “father of techno.” Atkins grew up in a suburb of Detroit. He experimented with a synthesizer and a tape deck to create the techno sound.
Some of the most famous techno tracks include:
- “Cosmic Cars” by Juan Atkins
- “Magnese” by Surgeon
- “The Tunnel” by Richie Hawtin
- “Electric Salsa” by Sven Vath
- “Ghetto Kraviz” by Nina Kraviz
- “Subzero” by Ben Klock
- “E Dancer” by Kevin Saunderson
- “Autobahn” by Kraftwerk
- “The Bells” by Jeff Mills
While this music was extremely popular in the 1980s, it is making a comeback. In fact, Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is currently the third most popular music genre in the world. Many countries across the globe hold techno music festivals. Europe hosts some of the most well-attended techno festivals in the world. These events include the Awakenings Festival in the Netherlands, Time Warp in Germany, Exit Festival in Serbia, and Sonus Festival in Croatia.
HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldTechnoDay
The best way to observe this day is by listening to techno music. If you’re not familiar with this music genre, look up some of the above-listed songs online and take a listen. Go to a club with your friends and dance to techno music. You can also learn more about techno music history and how it came about. If you really like techno music, plan to attend an upcoming techno music festival. Share your favorite techno music on social media with #WorldTechnoDay.
WORLD TECHNO DAY HISTORY
This day has been around since 2003. The observance is also a nod to Juan Atkins, one of the genre’s founders. He was born on December 9, 1962.
