OC Music News is devastated to announce the passing of Depeche Mode’s Andrew Fletcher.
Moments ago, Depeche Mode released the following statement:
Fletcher – or Fletch as most of us called him – was one of the original members of the ‘80s synth pioneering band, Depeche Mode. While Depeche led the new wave and electronic rock movement, which grew into the alternative rock format, they continued to evolve without losing the heart of their sound. DM has sold more than 100 million records, and in 2020, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
PHOTO by Green-Eyed Blonde Photography
From their baby-faced video for “Just Can’t Get Enough,” to finding their voice with “People are People,” the height of their fame with “Strangelove,” “Personal Jesus,” “Enjoy the Silence,” and “Walking in My Shoes,” and their continued maturity with “Precious,” “Going Backwards,” and “Where’s the Revolution”… Fletch was there.
Often front-man Dave Gahan and main songwriter Martin Gore received most of the attention at shows, but many fans enjoyed Fletch’s dad-dance style behind his keyboards.
DM PROMOTIONAL PHOTO
Through the years of drugs, alcohol, and drama that nearly destroyed DM – and often pitted Gahan and Gore against each other – Fletch was seen as the calm one who could act as an intermediary.
In recent years, the band looked better than ever. Previous dysfunction had been resolved and their live shows had an incredible sense of camaraderie.
Fletcher is survived by his wife, Gráinne, and their two children: Megan and Joe.
OC Music News sends our deepest sympathy to the entire Depeche Mode family.
