Berlin's techno scene added to Unesco intangible cultural heritage list (theguardian.com)

Article summary

Berlin's techno scene has been added to Germany's list of intangible cultural heritage, recognizing its contribution to the city's cultural identity. The scene has been a part of Berlin's culture for decades and has been shaped by various influences, including Detroit techno and European electronic music. The recognition is seen as a milestone for the techno community, which has been campaigning for its inclusion on the list for over a decade. The addition of Berlin's techno scene to the list is one of six new entries, including fruit wine and mountaineering.

Main themes

• Berlin techno scene
• Intangible cultural heritage
• Electronic music history
• Cultural identity
• Tourism and gentrification

What commenters say

• The techno scene in Berlin is not as underground and cool as it used to be due to tourism and gentrification, with some arguing that it has lost its original charm and authenticity.
• The origins of techno music are complex and multifaceted, with influences from Detroit, Chicago, and European electronic music, and should not be oversimplified or attributed to a single location or culture.
• The recognition of Berlin's techno scene as intangible cultural heritage is ironic given the scene's history of gentrification and the fact that it has been shaped by African American and other international influences.
• The distinction between techno and other forms of electronic dance music, such as EDM, is often lost on audiences in North America, where techno remains a relatively niche genre.
• The influence of European electronic music, such as Kraftwerk, on the development of Detroit techno is undeniable, and should be acknowledged as part of the genre's history.
• The complaint about tourists and foreigners in the Berlin techno scene is not about racism, but about the commercialization and homogenization of the scene, which is losing its unique character and authenticity.