Juan Atkins, co-creator of techno music, dies

Juan Atkins, recognized as a co-creator of the techno music genre, has died, according to his booking agency reported by NBC News.

Atkins helped develop techno in the 1980s with school friends in suburban Detroit, including collaborators Kevin Saunderson and Derrick May, who were known as the Belleville Three.

In 1981, Atkins formed the duo Cybotron with Richard Davis, releasing the influential track "Clear" in 1983, which became popular in clubs and among breakdancers.

Atkins was also a noted DJ who played techno records at clubs and festivals, and he was scheduled to perform in Mexico City shortly before his death, but the appearance was canceled.

His collaborator Kevin Saunderson described Atkins as "the originator of Techno" and a visionary who opened doors for many artists in the genre.