Techno emerged in the late 1980s. It was developed by musicians Kevin Saunderson, Juan Atkins and Derick May in Detroit, Mich.
Techno is played in 4/4 time. It is repetitive and percussive; the bass line is the driving force of the music. As its name suggests, techno is an electronic music that relies heavily on electric instruments, such as synthesizers and drum machines.
Styles of techno include classic techno, minimal techno, gloomcore, industrial techno, dub techno and Euro techno.
Techno is a kind of dance music because of its consistent, heavy beat. Clubs and discos are its main venues. In the 1990s, techno was the music of choice for British raves.
Night Drive Music, Soma Records and Matrix Records are among the top techno labels. Others include Scion Version, Soundhack and Quietus Recordings.