Bernard Sumner is a pioneering British musician and founding member of Joy Division and New Order, two bands that fundamentally shaped post-punk and electronic music. As a key architect of New Order's evolution from post-punk innovators to synth-pop and techno pioneers, Sumner helped define the Manchester sound that emerged from Factory Records and The Haçienda. His production work and songwriting—alongside continuous collaborator Stephen Morris—established New Order as one of electronic music's most influential acts across their extensive discography.
Beyond New Order, Sumner's creative reach extends to Electronic, his collaborative project with Johnny Marr, and Bad Lieutenant, showcasing his versatility across synth-pop, techno, and experimental electronic production. His influence on the broader Manchester scene and the Madchester movement underscores his role as a foundational figure in dance and electronic music, blending synthesizers with innovative production techniques that continue to resonate across contemporary electronic genres.