Aphex Twin is the stage name of Richard D. James (born 18 August 1971), an English electronic musician and composer renowned for his pioneering work in ambient, IDM (Intelligent Dance Music), and experimental electronic music. Known for his innovative sound design, complex rhythms, and genre-defying compositions, Aphex Twin has had a profound influence on electronic music since the early 1990s.

James began releasing music in the late 1980s and early 1990s, initially through labels such as Rephlex (which he co-founded) and Warp Records. Early albums, including Selected Ambient Works 85–92 (1992) and Selected Ambient Works Volume II (1994), showcased his ability to create immersive, textured soundscapes, blending ambient atmospheres with unconventional structures and electronic experimentation. His work often balances melodic beauty with dissonance and complexity, establishing him as a master of both subtlety and sonic intensity.

Over the years, Aphex Twin has released a wide array of influential recordings, including Richard D. James Album (1996), Drukqs (2001), and Syro (2014), each demonstrating his continual innovation and refusal to be confined by traditional electronic music boundaries. His compositions frequently incorporate intricate breakbeats, manipulated samples, and highly detailed sound design, often pushing the limits of rhythm, timbre, and production techniques.

Aphex Twin is also renowned for his enigmatic public persona and creative presentation, using pseudonyms, cryptic artwork, and experimental music videos to complement his groundbreaking music. Through his combination of technical mastery, artistic vision, and genre-defying experimentation, Aphex Twin has established himself as one of the most influential and enduring figures in electronic music, inspiring generations of producers and listeners worldwide.