ANDY FLETCHER,
1941-2022
Tributes have been pouring in to honor Depeche Mode co-founder Andy Fletcher, who died Thursday at his home in the U.K.
“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,” Depeche Mode said in a joint statement.
“Andy Fletcher was the heart of Depeche Mode,” said SiriusXM host Michael Pagnotta, who handled the band’s PR in the 1990s. “A true believer in the band and their music. His keen musical and business instincts helped Depeche become one of the most popular and influential bands of their generation and helped carry them all the way to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Not bad for a boy from Basildon.”
Fletcher, Vince Clarke and Martin Gore, all of whom played synthesizer, and singer Dave Gahan formed Depeche Mode in 1980, releasing their first album, Speak & Spell, in 1981. Alan Wilder replaced Clarke on synthesizer and Gore took over as the outfit's main songwriter as they darkened their sound and became the standard-bearer for synth-based alt rock.
We’re saddened and shocked that Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has died. Fletch was a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music and could also give sensible advice about the music business. pic.twitter.com/tOMQaeaFoc
— Pet Shop Boys (@petshopboys) May 26, 2022
We are saddened to hear of Andy Fletcher's passing. Our thoughts are with Depeche Mode, their crew, his family and friends at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/6wEHkVvEYb
— New Order (@neworder) May 27, 2022
We mourn the loss of our dear friend Andrew Fletcher who passed away yesterday. Such an integral part of Depeche Mode from the very start of their remarkable journey, he will be missed beyond words. pic.twitter.com/AV8hE03TwH
— Mute (@MuteUK) May 27, 2022
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. #andyfletcher
— Alison Moyet (@AlisonMoyet) May 26, 2022
Very sad news today. Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has passed. 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.
— Lol Tolhurst (@LolTolhurst) May 26, 2022
SP is saddened to learn about the passing of the legendary and inspirational Andrew Fletcher of Depeche Mode. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/qHt7XtnF97
— The Smashing Pumpkins (@SmashingPumpkin) May 27, 2022
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. pic.twitter.com/4ovpR27uAo
— Live Nation (@LiveNation) May 26, 2022
— Depeche Mode (@depechemode) May 26, 2022
