One of techno's most influential figures, Richie Hawtin played an essential role in developing the sound of minimal techno, as well as spreading its popularity throughout the global club scene. Most famous for his experimental acid techno productions as Plastikman, including the classic albums Musik (1994) and Consumed (1998), he is equally well-regarded for his groundbreaking live sets and mix CDs (especially 1999's Decks, EFX & 909) which utilize cutting-edge DJ technology, fusing loops of techno records with additional synthesizers and drum machines. 

Initially based in Windsor, Ontario and connected with the techno scene in nearby Detroit, he co-founded the highly influential Plus 8 (and its harder sublabel Probe Records) along with John Acquaviva, later establishing Minus and relocating to Berlin during the early 2000s, just as minimal techno began receiving mainstream exposure. Hawtin has continued pushing the limits of technology, developing highly conceptual events which are often intertwined with the art world, such as a 2013 performance at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City which resulted in Plastikman's EX album.