Jean-Michel Jarre charts electronic music history in new book
The French electronic music pioneer is publishing a comprehensive history of the genre that underscores Europe’s foundational role in the global music technology and nightlife economy.
Jean-Michel Jarre has announced his first book, titled ‘Machines: A History of Electronic Music’. The publication combines personal reflection with expert commentary to trace the technological evolution of the genre.
This release arrives as a strategic precursor to the 50th anniversary of his landmark 1976 album ‘Oxygène’ in 2026 and 2027. The timing positions the book to capitalize on a major milestone for one of Europe's most significant cultural exports.
The narrative begins with Jarre’s childhood fascination with reel-to-reel tape and his studies under Pierre Schaeffer at the Groupe de Recherches Musicales in Paris. It then expands to cover Luigi Russolo’s 1913 Futurist manifesto ‘The Art of Noises’, alongside movements like Surrealism and the Bauhaus.
Jarre highlights pioneering institutions such as the BBC Radiophonic Workshop and Radio France. Each chapter is structured around a single machine to unlock a specific moment in the historical timeline.
The project features contributions from a major roster of artists, including Armin van Buuren, Vince Clarke of Depeche Mode and Erasure, and Gillian Gilbert of New Order. Additional input comes from Air’s Nicolas Godin, Richie Hawtin, Johnny Marr, Gary Numan, Benjamin John Power, and Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes.
Together, these contributors examine the progression from tape manipulation and analogue synthesis to the digital revolution. The book also addresses modern advancements like 3D recording, immersive multimedia, and AI-assisted performance.
Readers will find rare archival material and technical schematics presented alongside stills from Jarre’s live shows. This visual approach aims to serve as a comprehensive companion for long-time followers of the artist.
Jarre’s profile remains high following his headlining performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympic closing ceremony and a set at Coachella. The book effectively sets the stage for the upcoming anniversary run, which will drive significant commercial activity across the European live events and publishing sectors.
The electronic music and nightlife industries represent a massive economic engine for European cities, driving tourism and hospitality revenue. By documenting the technological lineage of this sector, the publication reinforces the continent's ongoing influence on global entertainment markets.
