Depeche Mode's keyboardist and founding member Andy Fletcher has passed away at the age of 60.
He was a member of the group for over forty years since the release of their debut album 'Speak And Spell' in 1981. The band are renowned for their chart topping tracks 'New Life', 'Dreaming Of Life', and 'Just Can't Get Enough'.
Their first international hit arrived three years later with 'People Are People'.
Back in 2020, Fletcher was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, alongside side bandmates Dave Gahan, and Martin Gore. Former band members Alan Wilder and Vince Clarke were also inducted.
No cause of death has been confirmed at this time. Fletcher's band Depeche Mode did release this statement.
“We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate Andy ‘Fletch’ Fletcher,", they said.
“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 this time".
— Depeche Mode (@depechemode) May 26, 2022
Many people have since paid tributes to the late keyboardist Andy Fletcher.
“This is turning out to be a very bad day for Rock and Roll…. very very sad news", Roger O'Donnell of the Cure tweeted.
This is turning out to be a very bad day for Rock and Roll.... very very sad news
— Roger O'Donnell (@RogerODonnellX) May 26, 2022
Lol Tolhurst also added, “Very sad news today".
“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".
“Gosh sad news for the mighty Depeche Mode", Sister Bliss of Faithless also added. “RIP Andy Fletcher keyboard warrior, gon way too soon".
See more tributes below.
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
— Erasure (Official) (@erasureinfo) May 26, 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
Last week, tributes were also paid to the late rocker Chris Cornell on the fifth anniversary of his death.
