DETROIT, MI - There was a consensus Tuesday night during a panel discussion about Detroit techno music's history at the University of Michigan's Detroit Center.

This constantly evolving style of music, dating back to the early 80s, is bigger and more prevalent around the world than ever before.

"Detroit is where it's at," said Juan Atkins, known as a techno pioneer in the city.

Credit the Detroit's annual Movement Electronic Music Festival, to be held this weekend downtown, for reminding the public of its significance.



The festival, which began in 2000, is expected to draw at least 100,000 fans. Before the event started charging admission in 2005, it drew anywhere from 150,000 to 1.5 million.

Below is a look at comments from DJs and producers Daniel Bell and Brenden Gillen, and Atkins about the festival, the music's impact on the world and its future.

Let MLive Detroit know what you think about techno and electronic music in our comments section.

Admission to Movement is $49 (plus a $4 fee) for a one-day pass and $99 (plus a $4 fee) for a three-day pass. Tickets can be purchased on the website.

Daniel Bell

"(The festival) has made a big difference. I think we've all traveled (around the world) to different shows - China, other places - and it just blows my mind to see these people so far away so connected to what's going on (in Detroit) and with this music. We had a long time, a long spell in Detroit when there was nothing here (in terms of a Detroit techno music scene); there really weren't any clubs and it was a shame because the music has always had international appeal.

"The following is incredible and there's still so much influence. And it's great to have a showcase so people can come here to an event. It gives people a reason to come here, a reason and opportunity for us to be engaged locally. The music continues to be more and more popular. And the festival is just a positive thing. Everybody (around the world, techno fans) ask 'What's going on in Detroit?' For a while there, there wasn't much other than small parties. This really gives the people a reason to come here, and I know people from around the world - from Japan, Europe, everywhere - that now come here because the music is such a big part of their lives."

Brenden Gillen

"It used to be when we came through customs the (border patrol) would ask why we had these black circular discs (turntables). But things have changed. (Border patrol now asks) 'You're going where? Oh, Movement, OK.' They're like, 'Oh yeah, that techno music.' That's the one thing that's really different now. I think the festival gives the world a chance to celebrate what Detroit has given the world musically.

"So there are weird emotions that happen (during the festival), especially the last day. People are crying, it's an emotional event in Detroit. You see the magic before your eyes during a holiday weekend; it's a huge thing full of a lot of feelings."

Juan Atkins

"It's definitely a very good feeling (to see the festival's growth and popularity of Detroit techno). It's good to know that all the blood, sweat and tears put into the music has paid off. It pays off when you see people enjoying themselves out there."