Kevin Saunderson

The techno pioneer has fondmemories of his 808, but he’smore than happy with amodern digital studio

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I’ve always been drawn to the four-on-the-floor,” says techno legend Kevin Saunderson. “Even as a kid – a really young kid – I can remember hearing this beat and realising that it was something special. I knew that rhythm was going to take me somewhere. I guess I didn’t know just how far it was going to take me.”

Kevin Saunderson is one of the few names in electronic music that need no introduction. Alongside Derrick May and Juan Atkins, he was part of the Belleville Three, and is generally regarded as one of the godfathers of techno. Without a hint of exaggeration, we can probably add that he is one of the aural sculptors that helped shape the sound of electronic music.

Working as Kreem, Saunderson’s first single, Triangle of Love, was released over 30 years ago. During the next three decades, Saunderson employed a string of different names. As Reese he was responsible for Just Want Another Chance and its groundbreaking bassline, and enjoyed worldwide success with Inner City. As e-Dancer, he released a couple of corking tracks last year – including the joyously hypnotic One Nation – plus an update of Inner City’sGood Life.

But it’s the reformation of the Belleville Three that’s really got techno hearts all a-flutter. Saunderson, Atkins and May are the main attraction at this year’s Movement event in their home city, Detroit.

Computer Music: It’ll be the first time the three of you have shared the same stage since 2010. Can you tell us much about what’s in store when you reunite as a trio? Or is it still not all decided?