Carl Craig

Born: 22 May 1969 in Detroit, USA. Carl Craig emerged as a seminal figure in Detroit techno's second wave, following the pioneering work of Derrick May, Kevin Saunderson, and Juan Atkins, and later collaborating with May. He started recording at the dawn of the 1990s, employing a variety of aliases to release groundbreaking ambient, techno, breakbeat, and future jazz tracks.

One such alias, Innerzone Orchestra, released "37872" in 1992, a track instrumental in transitioning drum 'n' bass away from hardcore and ragga influences. He later reassembled Innerzone Orchestra as a jazz/techno ensemble, enlisting jazz composer/keyboardist Craig Taborn, former Sun Ra Arkestra member Francisco Mora Catlett, and Matthew Chicoine to create the 1999 album "43817".

Matt Chicoine, using the alias Recloose, later signed with Craig's label Planet E Communications, an exceptional dance label sharing the eclectic and futuristic vision that characterizes Craig's music.

With releases under numerous aliases, including BFC, Psyche, Paperclip People, The Sound System, Designer Music, and Innerzone Orchestra, Carl Craig boasts more musical identities than the typical electronic artist. While his various personas may bewilder, his music consistently embodies that distinctive Craig-ness. A profound dedication to soul infused with jazz, often but not exclusively intertwined with a Detroit techno sound, has always marked his work.

Even when Craig captivates dance floors with tracks like the classic "161616" (or its numerous versions!), there remains a subtlety and meticulousness that distinguishes his music from that of conventional dance music producers.

His cousin is Doug Craig.