Doku: How techno became big (Part 1)

A documentary on the birth of techno takes us on a journey to the roots of this influential genre.

In the 1980s, techno emerged in Detroit, shaped by artists like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson – the “Belleville Three.” Inspired by funk, electro, and futuristic sounds, they created a new, machine-driven aesthetic. From there, techno spread globally, especially to Berlin, where the scene found a second home after the fall of the Wall. The documentary explores how underground music became a worldwide culture – raw, revolutionary, and timeless.

Vinyl - the black fever

“The Black Fever” – that’s what vinyl enthusiasts call their insatiable collecting passion. The warm sound quality, the crackle of the needle on the record, and the large cover artwork make vinyl a special experience.

Many enjoy the conscious act of listening and the nostalgia that comes with it. While streaming is convenient, vinyl offers a tangible connection to music. Collectors hunt for rare pressings and limited editions – often increasing in value. Once infected, there’s hardly a cure: The Black Fever stays!

Miss Delia Derbyshire - Dr. Who Composer

The first commercial composition of electronic music came from a woman!!! Delia Derbyshire was way ahead of her time. So far ahead that even Robo's from Kraftwerk would have to bow down before her.

Before computers had any relevance in music, she was already where we are today with Ableton. Loop-based music is as popular globally today as sheet music was 100 years ago. Delia Derbyshire was already doing this in the early 60s. The music for the TV series Dr. WHO (BBC) is still the best known. It was not until 1982, twenty years later, that the work was reworked using the technology of the time with the first samplers and (usable) polyphonic synthesizers. The vocoder, i.e. voices, were also added (see 3rd YT video).

Giorgio Moroder feat. Kylie Minogue

In 2015, Giorgio Moroder released the song “Right Here, Right Now” together with Kylie Minogue, which appeared on his album Déjà Vu.

This track combined Moroder's characteristic disco sound with Minogue's unmistakable voice and reached number one in the US Dance Club Songs charts. Not to forget: I feel love, by Donna Summer!!! At 84 years old today, the old hand has shown that music has no age. In recent years, Moroder has remained active in the music scene. In 2021, he worked with Duran Duran on two tracks for their album Future Past. In January 2025, he co-produced The Weeknd's album Hurry Up Tomorrow and co-wrote the songs “Big Sleep” and “Without a Warning”. Although no tour dates are currently planned for Moroder, he remains an influential player in the music industry.

Scissor Sisters - "Invisible Light"

Scissor Sisters have released a new video. “Invisible Light” provides information about death and resurrection in particularly drastic images, so much so that even YouTube wants to confirm the age of the viewer when they call it up.

Whether falling out teeth, domesticating wolves or monks taking hostages were the deciding factors for this precaution or simply the release date before Christmas? The band show their artistic versatility and their courage to explore boundaries here. “Invisible Light” is more than just a song - it's an electronic manifesto about freedom, desire and the invisible that lies between us. It’s a live show favorite, often creating goosebump moments.

Update: After a 12-year hiatus, the band have announced their return, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album with a major reunion tour of the UK and Ireland in May 2025, starting in Nottingham on May 16 and ending in Dublin on May 28. Band members Jake Shears, Babydaddy and Del Marquis will be joining the tour, while Ana Matronic will not be taking part due to other commitments. Alison Goldfrapp will accompany the tour as support act.