No discussion about the history of electronic music would be complete without a mention of the storied career of Richie Hawtin. Richie’s catalog represents an important link between the earliest roots of techno and the electronica scene of today. In an era marked by stifling convention, Richie found success by holding fast to his musical roots. His commitment to minimalism became his trademark as he found himself in the midst of an artistic revolution. The shifting sonic landscapes of the second wave of modern techno became the backdrop against which he would shape his own creative potential.
 
The foundation for Richie’s career was laid in his early childhood. His father had a great love of and affinity for electronic technology and, as a result, the Hawtin family had access to some of the most innovative technology of the day. Through his work as a robotics technician for General Motors, Richie’s father had a unique insight into the electronic technology revolution of the 1960’s and 70’s and Richie grew up with a fondness for such devices. His father also instilled a love of music in young Richie, introducing him to the pioneering electronic artists of the era, such as Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream.