Andy Fletcher, founder member of British band Depeche mode has passed away at 60. The band said that they were "shocked" about his "premature" departure.
The band, which was formed in 1980 in Basildon (about 40 miles east from London), said that they were shocked and overwhelmed by the loss of a dear friend, family member, and band member.
Andrew Fletcher was born July 1961 in Nottingham. He was nicknamed "Fletch", and was one of the keyboardists for the band.
Depeche Mode released a statement saying that Fletch "had a real heart full of gold" and was always there for support, lively conversations, or a cold pint. The group also said that they were thinking of his family and asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Andy Fletcher has left behind Grainne, his wife for 30 years, as well as two children, Megan, and Joe.
Depeche Mode's worldwide sales total more than 100 million records. His greatest hits include "Just can't stop", "Everything Counts", and "Never Let Me Down Again".
They were pioneers in synthetic pop in early 1980s and created this genre to escape it. In the early 1990s they opened up to guitars.
The album "Violator", released in 1990, was a huge success. It featured the hits "Personal Jesus", and "Enjoy the Silence".
Depeche Mode's second single, "New Life", debuted at the top of the UK charts on June 11, 1981.
The original lineup included Vince Clarke, keyboardist and songwriter, Martin Gore, Andy Fletcher, keyboardist, and singer/songwriter Dave Gahan.
Vince Clarke quit the band in 1981. He was replaced by Alan Wilder two years later.
Depeche mode's newest studio album, Spirit, was released in 2017. It was followed by a tour through Europe and the Americas.
Today, many artists from pop to techno claim their influence.
Lol Tolhurst (drummer of The Cure) reacted to Andrew Fletcher's death by regretting that it was "very sad news."
Andy was a friend and a person I knew. He said that they had crossed paths many times together when we were young.
Carol Decker, the lead singer of T'Pau described Andrew Fletcher "a lovely man", and added, "Sending all his love to family friends, and band members."
