Depeche Mode's Andrew Fletcher dies, aged 60

26 May 2022, 20:40 | Updated: 27 May 2022, 20:02

"Fletch" was one of the founder members of the British electronic pop act.

Andrew "Fletch" Fletcher, one of the founding members of Depeche Mode, has died aged 60. No cause of death has been reported.

The band broke the news on social media on Thursday evening (26th May), saying: "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."

2017: Andrew Fletcher of Depeche Mode arrives at Jimmy Kimmel show

Fletch formed Depeche Mode in 1980 in Basildon, Essex with Vince Clarke, who would later leave to become one half of Erasure. Together with bandmates Dave Gahan and Martin L. Gore, Fletcher was inducted into the Rock 'N' Roll Hall Of Fame in 2020.

The musician has appeared on all of Depeche Mode's fourteen studio albums, including Black Celebration (1986), Music For The Masses (1987) and Violator (1990). His back catalogue included hits such as Just Can't Get Enough, Everything Counts, Personal Jesus and Enjoy The Silence.

He also enjoyed a successful DJing career and launched his own label, Toast Hawaii, in 2002.

Fletcher is survived by his wife Grainne and their two children.

The world of music has been paying tribute to Fletcher. Former Depeche Mode colleague Alan Wilder tweeted: "My thoughts and condolences are with his wife Grainne and all the family at this distressing time. RIP 'Fletch'."

Alison Moyet, who joined Vince Clarke in his post-Depeche Mode band Yazoo, who were also signed to the Mute label, said in a message: "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."

Pet Shop Boys Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe tweeted: "Fletch was a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music and could also give sensible advice about the music business."

Lol Tolhurst, former drummer and keyboard player with The Cure tweeted: "I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same pathways as younger men."

Smashing Pumpkins, who covered Never Let Me Down Again on the 1998 Depeche Mode tribute album For The Masses, called Fletcher "legendary and inspirational".