Kelli Hand, the first lady of Detroit techno, is dead

Hand recorded for Warp, Tresor and Acacia labels, among many others

Kelli Hand, widely acknowledged as ‘the first lady of Detroit techno’ is reported to have died.

Tributes to the producer, also known as K-Hand and whose music has been released by Warp, Tresor and her own Acacia label among many others, have been pouring in on social media. A cause of death has not yet been announced but a number of close colleagues confirmed the news today.

According to Tresor’s website, K-Hand’s musical development began at a very early age in Detroit: “At just six years old Kelli was already embracing the study of voice, piano, and bongos and went on to play the drums and a variety of percussion instruments throughout High School. In college she studied Music Theory and frequented legendary clubs such as “The Paradise Garage” as well as started her own inspirational Classic House vin yl record collection that her mentors Larry Levan and Timmy Regisford were playing in the early to mid 80’s. With fervent passion and drive, Hand had started forging her highly regarded and respected path, and was professionally and publicly acknowledged as the very first woman to ever release electronic music in the world.”