#145 Kevin Saunderson: Detroit from day one, "It worked because we were young"
Dec 3, 2024
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Kevin Saunderson, a pioneer of Detroit techno and a member of the Belleville Three, shares his musical journey and creative collaborations. He discusses the significance of his latest E-Dancer record and the experience of working alongside his son. Kevin reflects on the evolution of music production, the impact of aliases, and the cultural influences behind house and techno. He even dives into the lively dynamics of family and the role of ecstasy in shaping rave culture. A fascinating insight into the roots and future of dance music!
Kevin Saunderson reflects on his influential role in Detroit techno, highlighting its enduring impact on global dance music culture.
The collaboration with his son marks a poignant father-son partnership in music, showcasing how familial ties can inspire creativity.
Saunderson discusses the evolving music industry, emphasizing artists' challenges in monetization amidst digital streaming while remaining authentic to their art.
Deep dives
Annual Pledge Drive Excitement
The podcast hosts announce their annual pledge drive, highlighting its importance for sustaining the show. They detail subscription tiers available on their Patreon, emphasizing the need for more supporters to keep the podcast running. A promotion is introduced where new subscribers to the Solidarity tier can receive a 50% off voucher for the Bandcamp merchandise. Additionally, signing up for the more premium Musicality tier offers new subscribers a stylish t-shirt, enhancing the appeal of their membership offers.
Kevin Saunderson's Legacy
The podcast features an interview with Kevin Saunderson, a pivotal figure in the Detroit techno scene and a member of the Belleville Three, known for influencing the evolution of dance music. Saunderson shares insights into his musical journey, from crafting iconic tracks to performing alongside legendary artists. The discussion explores his early experiences and collaborations, illustrating his deep-seated passion for music and its rich history. His reflections highlight the significance of Detroit in shaping global techno and house music.
The Impact of Family in Music
Saunderson discusses the partnership with his son, who has now joined him in the music industry. Initially skeptical about his son's seriousness, Saunderson became aware of his talent and passion for music through shared experiences. This journey has allowed them to collaborate creatively, building a unique father-son partnership in the music scene. The conversation emphasizes how familial bonds can enrich one’s professional life and fuel artistic inspiration.
Cultural Reflections on U.S. Politics
The podcast touches on Saunderson's perspectives on a recent U.S. election, highlighting a divided America and the challenging political atmosphere. He expresses surprise at the election outcomes and reflects on the implications of leadership choices in contemporary politics. The conversation also addresses broader social issues, including racial dynamics and gender representation in political leadership. This analysis reveals how artists like Saunderson intersect their personal experiences with wider cultural and political dialogues.
The Evolution of Dance Music Scenes
The significance of the Detroit techno scene is discussed, particularly its historical connections to Chicago house music. Saunderson outlines how the two cities influenced each other and contributed to the broader electronic music landscape. He elaborates on key venues and influential figures that shaped the sound and culture of techno and house music. The conversation provides a vivid picture of the communal, vibrant atmosphere surrounding early electronic music events.
Navigating Today's Music Industry
Saunderson shares candid reflections on the current state of the music industry, particularly the challenges and changes brought about by digital streaming. He points out how emerging artists can now easily distribute music but often face difficulties monetizing their work. The conversation stresses the importance of staying authentic to the art amidst changing music landscapes. Saunderson also educates incoming artists about adapting to new tools and the necessity of understanding the evolution of music throughout the decades.
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We've had a few legends of dance music on the show, but this week we welcome our first member of the Belleville Three.
Along with Juan Atkins and Derrick May, Kevin Saunderson crested the first wave of Detroit Techno and birthed a global movement that persists to this day. Under his own name as well as a plethora of alias and groups including Inner City and E Dancer, Kevin made some of the most important tracks of any era of dance music.
So of course this is an exciting episode. We talk about the forthcoming E Dancer record, working with his son who is now a member of that group as well as Inner City, as well as getting deep into the early era as well as his breakout success with Inner City.
This is a great episode, you're going to love it.
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