“God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines” is a vibrant and nostalgic music documentary that showcases the beginnings of techno music and how Detroit, Michigan, was the creative and cultural hub for the creation and development of these beats. This lively exploration takes viewers from Detroit to Chicago to London and Berlin, tracing techno’s origins in the African American community. Focusing on the talent of a group of young Black artists — including Juan Atkins, Derrick May, Kevin Saunderson, Blake Baxter, Eddie Fowlkes and Santonio Echols — “God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines” is a compelling, rarely showcased history of mismanaged success, damaged friendships, ascendant beats and raw inspiration. The film details how the innovation and artistry of these Detroit musicians led to one of the most celebrated and profitable genres in the world. MICHIGAN PREMIERE.

 Advance tickets are expected to sell out.

It’s expected that a small number of free tickets will be released at the door on the evening of the show at the Michigan Science Center. Any available tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through the festival’s rush line process. The rush line begins at 6 p.m., but tickets will be distributed closer to 7 p.m., after available seats are counted. Admission is not guaranteed.

Those who secured advance tickets should arrive by 6:45 p.m. (15 minutes before showtime). After that time, seats may be given to other attendees.

This screening is being presented in partnership between the filmmakers, Freep Film Festival, the Sean Anderson Foundation, The Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan and Michigan Science Center. It is part of Big Sean’s Detroit’s On Now (DON) Weekend, which is presenting a variety of events throughout Detroit Aug. 25-27. More info about DON Weekend can be found here.