Derrick May

Derrick May, an illustrious figure in the world of electronic music, is widely celebrated as one of the pioneering artists of Detroit techno. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on April 6, 1963, May's influence extends far beyond his hometown; his music and DJing skills have made an indelible impact on the global dance music scene. Derrick May, along with his high school friends Juan Atkins and Kevin Saunderson, often referred to as the "Belleville Three," is credited with forging a new genre of music that blended the soul of funk with the futuristic possibilities of electronic sounds and machine rhythms.

Throughout his career, May has been known by several monikers, the most famous being 'Mayday.' His revolutionary track "Strings of Life" propelled him to international fame in the late 1980s, encapsulating the energy and ethos of the Detroit techno movement. His catalog is punctuated with seminal releases, including the masterclasses wrapped in "Innovator - Soundtrack for the Tenth Planet" and "Innovator (Mayday)", where his creative vision as an artist comes to life. Other tracks, such as "Love In Music" and "Mysterious Traveller," showcase the depth and versatility of May's production, marked by its emotion-laden melodies and intricate rhythms. Derrick May is not just a musician but a visionary, whose timeless sounds continue to resonate and inspire new generations of music makers and lovers alike.

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  1. August 15, 2002