

S2E7: I Was There
Oct 16, 2024
Join Kevin Saunderson, a pioneer of Detroit techno, as he shares his experiences at the Hacienda, a cultural hub that redefined dance music in the UK. He discusses the vibrant atmosphere of the club and contrasts it with American venues. The conversation dives into the tension within New Order during their rise, exploring themes of resilience, creativity, and the pressures of success. Saunderson also reflects on the Hacienda’s role in shaping Manchester’s nightlife and the challenges that followed the early celebrations of Acid House.
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Hacienda Fueled The Acid House Moment
- The Hacienda was perfectly suited to Acid House and repeatedly filled to capacity.
- Its rise helped Manchester and club culture coalesce around DJs and new dance music.
Technique As Cultural Validation
- Technique captured the zeitgeist and became New Order's first UK number one album.
- Its success validated the band's electronic direction and influenced the wider scene.
Kevin Saunderson's Firsthand Hacienda Memory
- Kevin Saunderson described the Hacienda as the closest thing to a true club outside the US.
- He witnessed its rapid transformation over six months into a cultural explosion.