When Derrick May opens the door to his personal listening world, expect the unexpected. M-3 Avenue is a Spotify playlist curated by May himself, offering a glimpse into the music surrounding one of Detroit techno’s pioneering figures. Rather than functioning as a straightforward techno collection, it moves through atmospheric electronics, classic club sounds, deep grooves and adventurous selections that reflect May’s wide-ranging musical taste. Spotify lists it among May’s artist playlists, alongside his essential selections and Detroit-focused collections.

The playlist sits naturally within the broader world of an artist whose own history is inseparable from Detroit techno. May is recognised as one of the three key founders of the genre and the founder of Transmat, making his selections particularly interesting as a window into the influences and sounds surrounding his career.

What makes M-3 Avenue intriguing is the absence of a rigid formula. Instead of locking itself into one tempo or subgenre, the playlist leaves room for mood, texture and discovery. Deep electronic passages can sit beside more rhythmic selections, creating a listening experience that feels personal rather than programmed for a predictable dancefloor response.

The result is a playlist that works almost like a musical address — a place where Detroit heritage meets May’s broader appreciation for electronic music. It is less about chasing the loudest moment and more about following the connections between tracks, eras and ideas.

For listeners interested in the musical world behind one of techno’s foundational figures, M-3 Avenue offers a different perspective: not simply Derrick May the producer, but Derrick May the listener.

Follow the avenue. Discover what moves the pioneer.