Depeche Mode keyboardist Andy Fletcher dies aged 60
He was a founding member of the hit synth-pop band
Andy Fletcher, founding member and keyboardist of Depeche Mode, has died at the age of 60.
Depeche Mode announced the news yesterday (May 26), writing in a statement: “We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate Andy ‘Fletch’ Fletcher.
“Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint. Our hearts are with his family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and respect their privacy in this difficult time.”
No cause of death has been made public at the time of writing.
Fletcher was a member of the band since their formation in Basildon, Essex in 1980. Since the release of their debut album ‘Speak & Spell’ in 1981, Depeche Mode have gone on to enjoy chart success with singles ‘Personal Jesus’, ‘New Life’, ‘Enjoy The Silence’ and ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 along with his longtime bandmates Dave Gahan and Martin Gore and former members Vince Clarke and Alan Wilder in.
Tributes have poured in since news of Fletcher’s death emerged. Pet Shop Boys wrote that they were “saddened and shocked” to learn about his passing.
“Fletch was a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music and could also give sensible advice about the music business.”
Alison Moyet said: “I have just heard the news. Since we were 10. Same estate. Class mates to label mates. He who kept faith with all the old gang and they with him. It doesn’t compute. Fletch. I have no words.”
Elsewhere, Roger O’Donnell of The Cure: wrote: “This is turning out to be a very bad day for Rock and Roll…. very very sad news,” while founding member of The Cure Lol Tolhurst said: “I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same pathways as younger men . My heart goes out to his family, bandmates, and DM fans. RIP Fletch.”
Entertainment company Live Nation added: “Andy Fletcher was an incredible musician and founding member of one of the most iconic groups of our generation,@DepecheMode. His legacy will forever be felt across the industry and he will be sorely missed.”
Sister Bliss of Faithless remembered the “mighty” Fletcher, adding that he has “gone too soon”. Erasure, meanwhile, posted an image of the late musician with a broken heart emoji caption.
This is a developing story – check back for updates