The longtime DJ, mentor, and Underground Resistance ambassador helped shape the city’s music culture.
Photo credit: John ‘Jammin’ Collins – Facebook
Detroit DJ and scene architect John ‘Jammin’ Collins has died. Detroit Techno Militia announced his passing on July 26th, 2026, describing him as a constant presence in the development of the city’s music and nightlife culture. No cause of death was disclosed.
Born in Detroit and raised in Hamtramck, Collins began DJing before techno emerged, holding a residency at Cheeks Nightclub alongside Jeff Mills during the 1980s. He later represented Detroit artists through Premier Entertainment before joining Submerge Recordings as a booking agent and manager.
Collins became a prominent ambassador for Underground Resistance and served as a longtime guide at Submerge’s Exhibit 3000 museum. He also founded the Detroit Regional Music Conference in 1994 and released his ‘Yeah’ EP through Underground Resistance in 2009.
A mentor to generations of local DJs and producers, Collins remained active behind the decks until shortly before his death, including appearances at Tec-Troit Festival and his Spkrbox residency.
