Depeche Mode Founder Andrew Fletcher Passes Away At 60

Andrew Fletcher, keyboard artist and founding member of British electronic band Depeche Mode died aged 60. His cause of death is not known at this time.

The group made this sad announcement on Thursday, “We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate Andy “Fletch” Fletcher.”

The statement further read, “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.”

Fletcher was born in Nottingham in 1961 and moved to Basildon where he formed the band Composition of Sound in the late 1970s alongside partners Martin Gore and Vince Clarke. After they recruited singer Dave Gahan they changed the name to Depeche Mode and the quartet went on to enjoy a spree of early 80s chart hits.

Later in his career, Fletcher worked as a DJ and went on tour around Europe in 2015. Fletcher and Depeche Mode were included in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.

Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and fans at this sad time. RIP.