'Blasphemous Rumours', without doubt for me closely followed by 'Enjoy The Silence'. The chorus of the former is one of the most sublime, sweetest melodies of the eighties. The lyric still shocks to this day and was daring in its willingness to confront the issues the song focuses on, rare at the time. B side 'Somebody' is a great track too. They had an amazing career, including as part of the so called British invasion in America in the eighties. I remember OMD supported them at the Pasadena Rose Bowl on their 1988 tour. Two bands from humble beginnings who made their mark.
Andy Fletcher was so much more important to the band than people gave him credit for. I was always disgusted when so-called fans called him "useless" and said the band didn't need him. He wasn't the most involved in the studio, but he truly was the glue that held Depeche Mode together. Without him they would've split up a long time ago. DM is my life and I still haven't quite processed the fact that he's gone, it still hurts so much. RIP dear Fletch 🙏
DM is my all time favorite band and the news of Andy’s passing absolutely broke my heart. I will be forever grateful for his contributions to the band and healing the rift between Dave and Martin. This allowed me more music and opportunities to see them live.
One thing that NO ONE mentioned is Fletch was the only member that tried to talk Alan Wilder to rethink his decision in leaving the band. Even though it was a heated argument, Fletch told Alan to take some time off and that he doesn't have to make a decision right away because they're not gonna be in the studio for another year anyways. I know many DM fans blamed Fletch for Alan's departure that was far from the truth. The recording of SOFAD and Flood's decision to put them all together and live in a remote Villa did it.
Thanks for the touching eulogy of Fletch. A friend introduced me to them and it wasn't long until I became a fan. An ex of mine took me to see them on Songs Of Faith and Devotion tour with all four members in it. One of my best concerts to ever see live. His presence in the band will be missed. Thank you,Andrew Fletcher for what you gave us musically for years to come. Rest In Peace. Thanks Professor for all you do!
I was looking forward to you covering the loss of Fletch. As usual, PoR, you did an amazing job! I have said many times, Fletch was to Depeche Mode as George Harrison was to the Beatles. Every good, successful team -- whether in sports, business or music -- needs people willing to fill their role. Fletch's role was invaluable, even if not high profile. The quiet, steady support Fletch showed for Dave Gahan during his well-publicized drug issues was not only essential to Depeche Mode remaining together as a band, but Dave staying alive. RIP Fletch!
Fletch's passing hit me like a punch in the gut. DM was a key part of my life's soundtrack since a friend put Music For The Masses on in his car as he drove us to school one fine morning in 1988. I knew right then I had to find everything from this dark, mysterious band. Luckily, all dozen or so weird kids in my high school and all the girls worth hanging out with were hip to Depeche Mode, but it was a small fan base that's for sure. The aforementioned friend, three of those girls, and yours truly got to see the World Violation tour at Saratoga Springs Performing Arts Center and it was a concert I'll never forget. As for greatest song, my personal favorite is 'Never Let Me Down Again'- the 'Split Mix' version with the extended instrumental section is the definition epic greatness.
I’m a fan since 1981 when I heard “Just can’t get enough“ on the great radio station , WLIR . I finally saw them in 2017 at Madison Square Garden and it was all I envisioned and more. What a band , what a journey , what a loss. RIP Fletch
Wonderful tribute. I hung out backstage with Andy and the band after a World Violation concert, he was a very nice guy. Thanks for all the amazing music and memories, RIP Fletch 🥀
I remember hearing DM for their first time with their single 'People are People'. I learned the chorus with just one listen. My favorite recent memory is their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. David Gahan did the speaking stating, "I have been in this band my entire adult life. I don't know what the hell I'd be doing if I hadn't found music. " "You would be stealing cars." said Andy. They started laughing and so did I. David listed their influences, David Bowie, Iggy Pop and the Stooges...etc Andy shouted, " Don't forget the Eagles!" I have always enjoyed the humor in their interviews. Andy Fletcher was always quick with a moment of humor. My thoughts go out to Andy's family, band mates and friends. 🙏❤
😌 Ahhh yes, I remember the very moment I first heard them as well. A girl friend played the *Some Great Reward* album for me in 1984. Now, like others here, I didn't grow up in a big coastal city on either coast of the US (nor did I live in Europe). So, the truly cutting edge new wave never got radio play. I got lucky when in the summer of '81, my best friend's older sister returned from San Francisco where she went to college (and was dating a DJ no less). She returned with a plethora of eye and ear-opening LP's. *OMD, Devo, Ultravox, The Cure, Talking Heads, Wall of Voodoo¹* and so on. As a result, I was hungry for more and by '84 I was pretty well-versed in the best there was to offer. Or so I thought… When my friend played *Some Great Reward* for me my mind wasn't just blown. 🤯 It was as if this band was saying, _"Hey, you think you know who you are? Well, we are going to reach in and touch a deeper part of you that you didn't know existed. Hold on tight kid, because nothing will be the same..."_ And nothing has been the same for me after that. ··•✺•·· ¹ ─ All still truly beloved cornerstones from my musical awakening.
I had the same feeling watching that award, Fletch's funny little adlib's 😂 We're going the pub etc 😂 he always had a funny quip to add somewhere and that's what also endears me to the band as well as the great music, they were just normal blokes who happen to be in the greatest band in the world and I think they couldn't believe it themselves. 😂 RiP Fletch 🙏
@Anna Trail HI Anna. The video of their induction is on TH-cam. The ceremony was virtual because of the pandemic. It is funny. They have a good sense of humor.
Since the day he passed away I was looking forward your tribute -I was sure it was coming in-. Rest in sound eternal Fletch. Thanks Professor of rock for this homage
Depeche Mode helped me immensely to get through my teens in the 80's and had a profound effect of shaping me into the adult I eventually became. Thank you Adam for giving Andy Fletcher this eulogy and making us all remember what an important role he did play in keeping the band together.
It's so sad to lose Andy Fletcher. It also seems a bit sad to me the way people continuously underestimate Alan Wilder's contribution to the group, including in this tribute to Andy. Wilder pretty much created their new, darker, industrial sound when he joined the band and when the Dave, Andy and Martin were going through their problems in the early 90s (Gahan with drugs, Fletcher with depression and Gore with alcoholism), Wilder pretty much held things together on his own: the band still produced records (somehow!). He left in '95 because he just didn't think anyone in the band cared about him any more despite what he'd done. That, to me, has always been a crying shame.
Agreed. Alan tends to be overlooked but he was an immense benefit when Vince Clarke left. Every album from Construction Time Again through Songs of Faith & Devotion was just amazing and truly defined Depeche's sound. In fact, I believe it was Alan's idea to give Enjoy the Silence a more dance-able sound instead of it being so melancholy.
NO ONE especially today "underestimates" Alan. His praises are sung ad nauseum in everything related to DM even here what is supposed to be a tribute to Andy some how Alan fan boys find it offesive. ANDY is the one who was ALWAYS underestimated, made fun off and generally spoken ill of even though without him there would be no DM to begin with.
@@vjreimedia, exactly! i couldn't agree with you more. hypocrisy of the fans makes me sick. while andy was alive half of the world laughed at him saying 'he ain't doing shit in the band, he's just clapping and playing with the banana on stage' and every time you could tell he would've rather been everywhere else but there trying to make fans believe he was having fun. and now ppl are like: 'ahhh, andy was the best musician in the world and the nicest human being', etc-etc... 🤢tbh i never really cared about andy fletcher, i always thought he was the reason why THE ONE AND ONLY ALAN WILDER left and never returned. without alan depeche mode would've never ever been that successful, not even close. i'm not even sure they would still exist at all. the band members and their families should be very grateful for alan for putting a huge amount of money to their pockets while he never got the credit he deserved. life is so fckn' unfair.😔
Thank you soooo much for this video, Professor of Rock.. I really needed to hear this right now. As a life time Depeche Mode fan that hasn’t missed a concert since 1986s Black Celebration at Radio City Music Hall until the latest one in 2018s Spirit at the Barclay Center in Brooklyn, this news floored me.. Every song is a memory of my life.. I know know how vital Fletch has been to Depeche and to know that he was alive to virtually accept one of music’s highest honor makes my heart soar!! BTW on my 50th birthday week DM was finally inducted into the RRHOF!!
I've been a die hard Depeche Mode fan since I first heard them in the early 80's. Unfortunately I've never had the chance to see them in concert. This is a very fitting tribute. I always wanted to look like Fletch as a teen in the 80's. Please keep up the good work. Thank you.
I was never a fan of Depeche Mode, so I don't know anything about him, but it's always sad when people that are fans lose someone that meant something to them. DM were a huge band and had an even bigger fanbase. My condolences to all those out there that did have some connection to him.
I think Depeche Mode were great and although I couldn’t remember his name at first, I was still gutted when he died because he basically made Depeche Mode Depeche Mode. He created the signature sound that made them truly great. R.I.P. Andy.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 That's perfectly fair, you can't be expected to know the name of everyone, even for artists you like. It can be a lot of names and faces. It's an unfortunate side effect of time that the older we get the more we're going to hear of these 80's artists passing. At least he's someone that left a lasting legacy behind.
It has felt like losing a friend. This band has been by my side helping my through difficult times, and a soundtrack to me life since I was a teen. RIP Fine Sir. Your Legacy has positively impacted so many Lives.
What a beautiful tribute Professor... and what a tragic loss indeed. When you were speaking about the roles of each band member, I instantly thought of the interview in 101 where Andy says he sort of just "bums around." I hope he never actually felt that way as he was SO much more. DM will forever be my favorite band as they helped me through my darkest days and stayed throughout greatest memories. Andy will indeed be missed, but his legacy WLL live on. Thank you so much for this video ♡ R I.P. Fletch...
In 1988, right after I graduated from college, I met Andrew and Martin on south street in front of tower records. It was a brief encounter but they were both super nice. They asked if I was coming to their show at the Spectrum that night. Sadly I had to say no because I had just come from a job interview and had to start that night. It was amazing to meet them. Especially at that time. Depeche was a huge part of the soundtrack of my college years. Some special memories are connected to their music. Andrew will be missed. 💔
What a heartfelt classy way to pay tribute to this quiet yet iconic and gifted musician. Such a tremendous and sad loss. Thank you for sharing Professor.
That was a very nice touching tribute. I didn’t know much about him, but from what you said it sounds like he wouldn’t have taken as much credit as what you gave him, but he certainly deserves it. He definitely will be missed.
One of the first bands that I remember buying CD singles for, because of all the amazing mixes they did on them. I think I bought every single they put out on CD, and still have them.
star i had a few 12 inch singles gave to dj he had several but sold them to anither dj wish i had some of those at local indie store clearance bin bought 5 or 6 cd maxi singles one people are people vince clark version waliking in my shoes only when i lose myself master servant blasphemous rumuors has live everthing counts had another cant find paid 1.50 each vinlys hard to come by if so must be expensive dont see many depeche hold on to them as yourself or djs my friend was still.playing vinlys up until maybe 5 or 6 years ago when got expensive to maintain he gave me 8 or 9 12 inch various ones and sold everthing else to.indie store
i've been very fortunate to see them on every tour since 1998 (Singles tour - I'm still kicking myself for missing the Devotional tour) and I've met Dave and Andy in person. Both were very lovely, polite, chatty and humble. The last time I saw Andy was at the Westminster Arms pub next to the venue where Dave Gahan's Imposter was playing that evening (3 December). He was happy chatting to people with a pint of beer in his hand. He'd come to support his band mate. RIP Andy. You were too young. I'm not lying when I'm saying you will be missed.
I was 9 years old in 1981. My Mother took me to one of my favorite record stores. I browsed the racks and loved the cover to "Speak and Spell". Purchased it with my side jobs and allowance (yes this was a thing lol), and returned home. Opened the album and placed it on my record player. The needle connected and "New Life" started to play. I was immediately hooked. Depeche has been a part of my lifes entirety. From this first record, to attending 101 concert at the Rose bowl, pre med school, residency, to my practice today. Depeche is solidified in my life and memories. I never had the opportunity to meet Fletch personally, but admired and respected his contributions to the band. You shall eternally be missed Fletch. May your soul forever rest in peaceful bliss.
I had a chance to see them play a few years ago and they were just spectacular. Martin is one of the most underrated singers of the 80s/90s. Add to that his ability to write hit after hit and you have a musician and a band that rarely got their due.
@@ProfessorofRock They really are. Thank you for taking the time to point out how critical Fletch was. Without him, I wouldn't have been afforded the opportunity to see them play. Cheers man.
Depeche Mode brought an entire atmosphere to the '80s that cannot be overstated. Just an amazing band for an amazing time. I don't think future generations will be able to understand the nuance of it.
DM has been a huge part of my life ever since high school....... RIP Fletch, you were awesome and will be missed, but the music you helped create will live on.
Professor of Rock is such a class act ! This channel should get an award or something... It is culturally valuable & relevant ... Andrew Fletcher , You wil not be forgotten ! DM 4 ever !
Thank you for this wonderful memorial to this quiet giant in electronic music. His passing affected me a lot as I felt a part of my youth was ripped out. The band will never be the same. RIP Fletch! 🙏
Thank you for this, Fletch deserves to be remembered this way. I finished reading the biography "Stripped" just a couple months ago so his history, contribution to the band, and his relationship with Martin in particular sit fresh in my mind. So heartbreaking; I look forward to seeing them live every few years and now... it will never be the same.
Thanks for posting this. "People Are People" was my first track of theirs. I got to see them live for the first time for the first "Devotional" tour (when The The opened for them). Andy did so much for the band, as well as others. No one else seems to mention it, but he had his attempt at having his own record label with Toast Hawaii and promoting a band I like, Client. Unfortunately, the label did not survive (this was also around time that I think he was dealing with his restaurant in London, among other things on his plate), but he was always doing something worth while and his legacy will live on in memory. Rest in peace, Fletch. And to quote someone's posted comment, "rest in sound eternal." You are surely missed.
I recall having a conversation with a man in Rice Lake Wisconsin a few months ago about Deoeche Mode, and he thought Depeche Mode was more or less a one-hit wonder (with that "one hit" being "People Are People"), but I pointed out that they had another album that produced three U.S. top 40 hits. His memory seemed to have gotten jarred when I mentioned "Policy Of Truth," which he'd heard in the Selena movie. Now I realize that I hadn't even scratched the surface regarding Depeche Mode. Thanks, Professor!
Adam, THANK YOU for putting a spotlight on Fletch. He was the glue that held together the band and cannot be easily replaced. You asked in your poll about our favourite song. For me I could not list just one, but if I had to it would be Enjoy the Silence. The World Violation tour was the first time I had seen them live and this song is so powerful live. Thanks for keeping the music alive!
I thank you for your tribute,i cant believe he's gone.. Depeche Mode and Fletch are and will always be part of my life.. More than just the soundtrack of my life... Forever Depeche Mode and Fletch.
Broke my heart to see the news about Fletch. :( thank you for covering his death. Also btw he said always that Dave sings, Martin writes the songs, Alan arranges the music, I just bum around. He knew though how important he was.
We teenagers in the GDR always wanted to be so cool like Fletch. One aspect that brought me to the synths after learning to play drums was that I always wanted to wear sunglasses like him and wanted press any keys on a fancy device with a cool move like Fletch. No matter what his job actually was, he was more important for the band than just bumming around. When Dave and Martin were the testosteron monsters fighting for the title of the most experimental person, Fletch was the man who kept the easy listening part in the songs. I am sure that some songs of the band are not so blatant because of the talent of Fletch. And besides that, as you said, he was somewhat the manager of the band. And the glue that kept the band together.
I find it painful when an icon from our time passes because it reminds us of our own mortality. So enjoy life while you can and the music that inspires you. Live happy!
I am a brazen extrovert, with that being said, I've always been drawn to the quiet intellectuals. I've often said, when an introvert speaks listen, it will usually be worth listening to. That quiet strength and confidence is intriguing, they don't need to suck up all the oxygen in a room. I married an introvert and it's been the best and longest lasting relationship of my life. Andrew Fletcher is that strong underpinning of Depeche Mode. While Dave and Martin may get most of the limelight, Fletch was the quiet strength of the band.
It is so hard getting older..seeing friends pass, icons that have always been there in your life going away...Depeche is my favorite band of all time and we will miss you Fletch.The last tour I was unable to afford to go on the first leg..but once i saw they added another date here in LA for the 2nd leg i had the gut feeling I needed to go see them..so i paid for a ticket for myself..went by myself to it, but enjoyed and and now I am glad i went more so..having seen his last concert here in the LA area.
Adam - Great memoriam! The recent passing of both Fletch and Alan White were tough. All too many legendary musicians have passed between 2016 and the present alone.
Fletch is missed. Fitting that he passed right before the release of Memento Mori. I am taking my son to watch Depeche Mode tomorrow night in Dallas. It will be strange not to see Andrew.
I met Fletch twice. Once on the MFTM tour then again on the Violator tour. Great conversations. When Fletch passed I thought of those conversations. Fletch was a genuinely nice and humble guy who loved the fans. Such a huge loss.
I was rather busy when I first saw the news of Andy's passing but thought I'd see/hear more details later in the day - It didn't happen. My God, I thought, this is a founding fucking member of Depeche Mode, one of the most important and popular bands of all time, he deserved better than a couple of words and DONE. Thanks Prof, thanks for giving him his well earned due... R.I.P. Andy, you will be missed...
Depeche Mode was my first concert in 2018 , My mom saw them on the violator tour in 1990 and has been a fan since people are people , Long Live Andrew ❤️
Great tribute of cuts featuring Fletch at the end there. A little something got in my eye there towards the end. One of my particular favorites (not shown) is the "My Joy" video in which Andy and Martin "steal" the girl from Dave. The feigned mischievousness of Andy playing off of Martin as they flirt with the waitress always makes me smile when I watch it. Thanks for this PoR.
An ex girlfriend introduced me to this band way back in highschool. I was very late to the party on this band because the first album I heard and owned from Depeche Mode was Ultra. Although we didn't last, my love for this band has!. R.I.P. Andy
My mother introduced me to Depeche Mode while in quarantine in May 2010. When I heard “Just Can’t Get Enough”, I was just mesmerized by the whole thing. So mesmerized that I couldn’t speak. Music has such an exhilarating effect on you sometimes, and this is proof!
Lovely tribute to a stalwart of the best band of all time. Difficult to know what the future holds but even if the band don't release another thing they've given us a huge amount of pleasure with their music.
Thank you for doing this. I am wiping away tears. Depeche Mode is one of my favorite bands. We always to see them when they tour. The last time we saw them was the night before the Las Vegas shooting. They were Amazing as usual. Rest in Peace Andy, your will forever be in our hearts❤
I discovered Depeche Mode at a time when bands like Korn and Limp Bizkit were popular and Depeche Mode's last album at the time was Ultra. Thanks to the CD club that my mom was subscribed to we had the singles 86>98. I don't think we had the CD on purpose as my parent's didn't seem to be fans but the album art intrigued me enough to give it a spin. They are now one of my favorite bands. Ended up making friends with a guy back in college because he had a t-shirt with the Construction Time Again album cover.
I started listening to DM after the "People are People" release. "World in my Eyes" is the song I relate to, . I am a veteran. I have scars to show the past was real.
I’m 55 now, I cried all night when Fletch passed, I’m not a delusional fan , it was I respected this person since the start ,,,,, ALAN it’s time to return
Hello fellow Depeche mode Fans...been a fan since 1981 when i first heard " Just cant get enough " ..There were something different about the sound back then..its was different , poppy, upbeat..but sounded really good..i was just discovering music at an age of 11...What i am going to say is that the Guy Andy Fletcher maybe some of us loved to " hate" actually was the sticking Glue to this band in terms of keeping the band together..so now i fear we have heard the last to this amazing band..May Andy`s Soul Rest In Peace and his family and friends be well in this hard time...i know im late with this but keep doing your great stuff here on youtube Professor Of Rock..a lot of respect for your work..Per Winding Denmark..Last comment: Stipped is my Favourite track..😏
That was a great “send off”…. Andy Fletcher will be missed. Wonder if DM will continue without him? I really hope they do, they’ve been a HUGE part of the soundtrack to my life.
DM is the greatest band ever! When Fletch passed, it gave me another reason to think of my own mortality since he was part of my generation of bands. I didn't get to see them when I was younger, I would've loved to have seen Music for the Masses concert in Pasadena. But I did get to see them way later: 2009 Sounds of the Universe tour and 2013 Delta Machine tour. Great concerts!
Poll; What is your pick for Depeche Mode's greatest song?
Personal Jesus
'Blasphemous Rumours', without doubt for me closely followed by 'Enjoy The Silence'. The chorus of the former is one of the most sublime, sweetest melodies of the eighties. The lyric still shocks to this day and was daring in its willingness to confront the issues the song focuses on, rare at the time. B side 'Somebody' is a great track too. They had an amazing career, including as part of the so called British invasion in America in the eighties. I remember OMD supported them at the Pasadena Rose Bowl on their 1988 tour. Two bands from humble beginnings who made their mark.
In Your Room for overall best song, Enjoy the Silence for bringing them to the masses and still being the definition of iconic.
People are people
Mine is Enjoy the Silence
Andy Fletcher was so much more important to the band than people gave him credit for. I was always disgusted when so-called fans called him "useless" and said the band didn't need him. He wasn't the most involved in the studio, but he truly was the glue that held Depeche Mode together. Without him they would've split up a long time ago. DM is my life and I still haven't quite processed the fact that he's gone, it still hurts so much. RIP dear Fletch 🙏
DM is my all time favorite band and the news of Andy’s passing absolutely broke my heart. I will be forever grateful for his contributions to the band and healing the rift between Dave and Martin. This allowed me more music and opportunities to see them live.
Same.
Andy was an amazing musician. He made me love Depeche Mode. R.I.P. Andy.
Same here 🙋🏻♀️.
One thing that NO ONE mentioned is Fletch was the only member that tried to talk Alan Wilder to rethink his decision in leaving the band. Even though it was a heated argument, Fletch told Alan to take some time off and that he doesn't have to make a decision right away because they're not gonna be in the studio for another year anyways. I know many DM fans blamed Fletch for Alan's departure that was far from the truth. The recording of SOFAD and Flood's decision to put them all together and live in a remote Villa did it.
Thanks for the touching eulogy of Fletch. A friend introduced me to them and it wasn't long until I became a fan. An ex of mine took me to see them on Songs Of Faith and Devotion tour with all four members in it. One of my best concerts to ever see live. His presence in the band will be missed. Thank you,Andrew Fletcher for what you gave us musically for years to come. Rest In Peace. Thanks Professor for all you do!
A beautiful tribute to a truly lovely man . Thank you Professor .
Depeche Mode was and is such a huge part of everything I love about music. Thank you so much for spotlighting the band and remembering Fletch.
Thanks for watching.
Classy, understated tribute just like Fletch himself. Thank you and RIP. Another great loss gone far 2 soon.
He was far too young to die. R.I.P. Fletch.
I was looking forward to you covering the loss of Fletch. As usual, PoR, you did an amazing job! I have said many times, Fletch was to Depeche Mode as George Harrison was to the Beatles. Every good, successful team -- whether in sports, business or music -- needs people willing to fill their role. Fletch's role was invaluable, even if not high profile. The quiet, steady support Fletch showed for Dave Gahan during his well-publicized drug issues was not only essential to Depeche Mode remaining together as a band, but Dave staying alive. RIP Fletch!
Without Fletch, Depeche Mode would never be the same. Hell, even synthpop would probably never be the same.
Fletch's passing hit me like a punch in the gut. DM was a key part of my life's soundtrack since a friend put Music For The Masses on in his car as he drove us to school one fine morning in 1988. I knew right then I had to find everything from this dark, mysterious band. Luckily, all dozen or so weird kids in my high school and all the girls worth hanging out with were hip to Depeche Mode, but it was a small fan base that's for sure. The aforementioned friend, three of those girls, and yours truly got to see the World Violation tour at Saratoga Springs Performing Arts Center and it was a concert I'll never forget. As for greatest song, my personal favorite is 'Never Let Me Down Again'- the 'Split Mix' version with the extended instrumental section is the definition epic greatness.
Awesome, love this.
We love you Fletch! Rest in Paradise mate.
I’m a fan since 1981 when I heard “Just can’t get enough“ on the great radio station , WLIR . I finally saw them in 2017 at Madison Square Garden and it was all I envisioned and more. What a band , what a journey , what a loss. RIP Fletch
Wonderful tribute. I hung out backstage with Andy and the band after a World Violation concert, he was a very nice guy. Thanks for all the amazing music and memories, RIP Fletch 🥀
Very cool. Thanks for sharing.
OMG, you are a lucky man, Steven!
I remember hearing DM for their first time with their single 'People are People'. I learned the chorus with just one listen.
My favorite recent memory is their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. David Gahan did the speaking stating, "I have been in this band my entire adult life. I don't know what the hell I'd be doing if I hadn't found music. "
"You would be stealing cars." said Andy. They started laughing and so did I.
David listed their influences, David Bowie, Iggy Pop and the Stooges...etc
Andy shouted, " Don't forget the Eagles!"
I have always enjoyed the humor in their interviews. Andy Fletcher was always quick with a moment of humor.
My thoughts go out to Andy's family, band mates and friends. 🙏❤
I loved that! It was hilarious.
😌 Ahhh yes, I remember the very moment I first heard them as well. A girl friend played the *Some Great Reward* album for me in 1984.
Now, like others here, I didn't grow up in a big coastal city on either coast of the US (nor did I live in Europe). So, the truly cutting edge new wave never got radio play. I got lucky when in the summer of '81, my best friend's older sister returned from San Francisco where she went to college (and was dating a DJ no less). She returned with a plethora of eye and ear-opening LP's. *OMD, Devo, Ultravox, The Cure, Talking Heads, Wall of Voodoo¹* and so on.
As a result, I was hungry for more and by '84 I was pretty well-versed in the best there was to offer. Or so I thought…
When my friend played *Some Great Reward* for me my mind wasn't just blown. 🤯 It was as if this band was saying, _"Hey, you think you know who you are? Well, we are going to reach in and touch a deeper part of you that you didn't know existed. Hold on tight kid, because nothing will be the same..."_
And nothing has been the same for me after that.
··•✺•··
¹ ─ All still truly beloved cornerstones from my musical awakening.
I had the same feeling watching that award, Fletch's funny little adlib's 😂 We're going the pub etc 😂 he always had a funny quip to add somewhere and that's what also endears me to the band as well as the great music, they were just normal blokes who happen to be in the greatest band in the world and I think they couldn't believe it themselves. 😂
RiP Fletch 🙏
@Anna Trail HI Anna. The video of their induction is on TH-cam. The ceremony was virtual because of the pandemic. It is funny. They have a good sense of humor.
@@deydododontdedoh.5672 😊❤
Since the day he passed away I was looking forward your tribute -I was sure it was coming in-. Rest in sound eternal Fletch. Thanks Professor of rock for this homage
Depeche Mode helped me immensely to get through my teens in the 80's and had a profound effect of shaping me into the adult I eventually became.
Thank you Adam for giving Andy Fletcher this eulogy and making us all remember what an important role he did play in keeping the band together.
It's so sad to lose Andy Fletcher.
It also seems a bit sad to me the way people continuously underestimate Alan Wilder's contribution to the group, including in this tribute to Andy.
Wilder pretty much created their new, darker, industrial sound when he joined the band and when the Dave, Andy and Martin were going through their problems in the early 90s (Gahan with drugs, Fletcher with depression and Gore with alcoholism), Wilder pretty much held things together on his own: the band still produced records (somehow!).
He left in '95 because he just didn't think anyone in the band cared about him any more despite what he'd done. That, to me, has always been a crying shame.
Agreed. Alan tends to be overlooked but he was an immense benefit when Vince Clarke left. Every album from Construction Time Again through Songs of Faith & Devotion was just amazing and truly defined Depeche's sound. In fact, I believe it was Alan's idea to give Enjoy the Silence a more dance-able sound instead of it being so melancholy.
NO ONE especially today "underestimates" Alan. His praises are sung ad nauseum in everything related to DM even here what is supposed to be a tribute to Andy some how Alan fan boys find it offesive. ANDY is the one who was ALWAYS underestimated, made fun off and generally spoken ill of even though without him there would be no DM to begin with.
The music wouldn’t be what it is without him. He and his invaluable contributions live on through every song. RIP Andy.
He IS Depeche Mode.
@@vjreimedia, exactly! i couldn't agree with you more. hypocrisy of the fans makes me sick. while andy was alive half of the world laughed at him saying 'he ain't doing shit in the band, he's just clapping and playing with the banana on stage' and every time you could tell he would've rather been everywhere else but there trying to make fans believe he was having fun. and now ppl are like: 'ahhh, andy was the best musician in the world and the nicest human being', etc-etc... 🤢tbh i never really cared about andy fletcher, i always thought he was the reason why THE ONE AND ONLY ALAN WILDER left and never returned. without alan depeche mode would've never ever been that successful, not even close. i'm not even sure they would still exist at all. the band members and their families should be very grateful for alan for putting a huge amount of money to their pockets while he never got the credit he deserved. life is so fckn' unfair.😔
Thank you soooo much for this video, Professor of Rock.. I really needed to hear this right now. As a life time Depeche Mode fan that hasn’t missed a concert since 1986s Black Celebration at Radio City Music Hall until the latest one in 2018s Spirit at the Barclay Center in Brooklyn, this news floored me.. Every song is a memory of my life.. I know know how vital Fletch has been to Depeche and to know that he was alive to virtually accept one of music’s highest honor makes my heart soar!! BTW on my 50th birthday week DM was finally inducted into the RRHOF!!
I've been a die hard Depeche Mode fan since I first heard them in the early 80's. Unfortunately I've never had the chance to see them in concert. This is a very fitting tribute. I always wanted to look like Fletch as a teen in the 80's. Please keep up the good work. Thank you.
I was never a fan of Depeche Mode, so I don't know anything about him, but it's always sad when people that are fans lose someone that meant something to them. DM were a huge band and had an even bigger fanbase. My condolences to all those out there that did have some connection to him.
I think Depeche Mode were great and although I couldn’t remember his name at first, I was still gutted when he died because he basically made Depeche Mode Depeche Mode. He created the signature sound that made them truly great. R.I.P. Andy.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 That's perfectly fair, you can't be expected to know the name of everyone, even for artists you like. It can be a lot of names and faces. It's an unfortunate side effect of time that the older we get the more we're going to hear of these 80's artists passing. At least he's someone that left a lasting legacy behind.
@@Elwaves2925 You’re right. I’m only a teenager but sometimes even I forget the names of some of these legends.
They’re still a huge band and currently on sold out world tour
He will be missed dearly. I was lucky enough to see him play live twice. I have a long history with DM - since ‘83, actually…
Fletch was like a master-bus compressor: smooths out the differences, glues it all together, and gives that little extra punch that's needed.
It has felt like losing a friend. This band has been by my side helping my through difficult times, and a soundtrack to me life since I was a teen. RIP Fine Sir. Your Legacy has positively impacted so many Lives.
What a beautiful tribute Professor... and what a tragic loss indeed. When you were speaking about the roles of each band member, I instantly thought of the interview in 101 where Andy says he sort of just "bums around." I hope he never actually felt that way as he was SO much more. DM will forever be my favorite band as they helped me through my darkest days and stayed throughout greatest memories. Andy will indeed be missed, but his legacy WLL live on. Thank you so much for this video ♡ R I.P. Fletch...
I'm still devastated over losing Fletch...he was...such a great guy. I miss him so much.
It's very sad.
He was awesome!
In 1988, right after I graduated from college, I met Andrew and Martin on south street in front of tower records. It was a brief encounter but they were both super nice. They asked if I was coming to their show at the Spectrum that night. Sadly I had to say no because I had just come from a job interview and had to start that night. It was amazing to meet them. Especially at that time. Depeche was a huge part of the soundtrack of my college years. Some special memories are connected to their music. Andrew will be missed. 💔
What a heartfelt classy way to pay tribute to this quiet yet iconic and gifted musician. Such a tremendous and sad loss. Thank you for sharing Professor.
This one just broke my heart as I am a lifelong DM fan. Thank you for paying such a great tribute
Thank for an eloquent, insightful and honest tribute to a man who's career I have followed for 40 years. You summed him up beautifully
That was a very nice touching tribute. I didn’t know much about him, but from what you said it sounds like he wouldn’t have taken as much credit as what you gave him, but he certainly deserves it. He definitely will be missed.
One of the first bands that I remember buying CD singles for, because of all the amazing mixes they did on them. I think I bought every single they put out on CD, and still have them.
star i had a few 12 inch singles gave to dj he had several but sold them to anither dj wish i had some of those at local indie store clearance bin bought 5 or 6 cd maxi singles one people are people vince clark version waliking in my shoes only when i lose myself master servant blasphemous rumuors has live everthing counts had another cant find paid 1.50 each vinlys hard to come by if so must be expensive dont see many depeche hold on to them as yourself or djs my friend was still.playing vinlys up until maybe 5 or 6 years ago when got expensive to maintain he gave me 8 or 9 12 inch various ones and sold everthing else to.indie store
ps pretty cool.you have allthe cds as adam said 50 something probably most by any band
The band that has been a defining aspect of my life. RIP Fletch.
Same.
i've been very fortunate to see them on every tour since 1998 (Singles tour - I'm still kicking myself for missing the Devotional tour) and I've met Dave and Andy in person. Both were very lovely, polite, chatty and humble. The last time I saw Andy was at the Westminster Arms pub next to the venue where Dave Gahan's Imposter was playing that evening (3 December). He was happy chatting to people with a pint of beer in his hand. He'd come to support his band mate. RIP Andy. You were too young. I'm not lying when I'm saying you will be missed.
Thank you for showing Fletch the love he deserves. DM for life!
Of course. So sad.
I was heart broken when I learned of his passing. Fantastic tribute to Fletch and Depeche will never be the same again.
RIP Andy Fletcher. Depeche Mode is fantastic live, I saw them in Chicago in 2009. It was truly lit in every sense of the word.
Thank you so much for a suitably respectful but joyful tribute to Fletch. X
I was 9 years old in 1981. My Mother took me to one of my favorite record stores. I browsed the racks and loved the cover to "Speak and Spell". Purchased it with my side jobs and allowance (yes this was a thing lol), and returned home. Opened the album and placed it on my record player. The needle connected and "New Life" started to play. I was immediately hooked. Depeche has been a part of my lifes entirety. From this first record, to attending 101 concert at the Rose bowl, pre med school, residency, to my practice today. Depeche is solidified in my life and memories. I never had the opportunity to meet Fletch personally, but admired and respected his contributions to the band. You shall eternally be missed Fletch. May your soul forever rest in peaceful bliss.
That's a very cool story. Thanks for sharing.
The first song I heard from them was “Just Can’t Get Enough” and I basically had the same reaction as you!
I had a chance to see them play a few years ago and they were just spectacular. Martin is one of the most underrated singers of the 80s/90s. Add to that his ability to write hit after hit and you have a musician and a band that rarely got their due.
They are amazing live.
@@ProfessorofRock They really are. Thank you for taking the time to point out how critical Fletch was. Without him, I wouldn't have been afforded the opportunity to see them play. Cheers man.
I heard that they are awesome performers!
Depeche Mode brought an entire atmosphere to the '80s that cannot be overstated. Just an amazing band for an amazing time. I don't think future generations will be able to understand the nuance of it.
Without them, synthpop would never have hit the way it did.
Glad I got to see them live, they were excellent. Fletch will be missed
DM has been a huge part of my life ever since high school....... RIP Fletch, you were awesome and will be missed, but the music you helped create will live on.
Exactly!
Let us continue to keep Depeche Mode’s music alive!
Professor of Rock is such a class act ! This channel should get an award or something... It is culturally valuable & relevant ...
Andrew Fletcher , You wil not be forgotten ! DM 4 ever !
Thank You Andy for being the glue that kept DM together and being a founding member of the best band of my childhood.
I'm still in shock, the soundtrack to my life and the inspiration for my band
Rest in peace to a legend indeed. Absolutely grateful for the music he helped make possible.
Thank you for this wonderful memorial to this quiet giant in electronic music. His passing affected me a lot as I felt a part of my youth was ripped out. The band will never be the same. RIP Fletch! 🙏
Fantastic tribute to the legendary Fletch . Rest In Peace and thank you for all the fantastic music, Andy will live in our hearts. 💔
His synthpop sound impacted millions of people all around the globe.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I was amazed at the amount of singles that charted by them
@@MyName-pl7zn Me too. Plus the sheer amount of talent put into each and every single song.
Thank you for this, Fletch deserves to be remembered this way. I finished reading the biography "Stripped" just a couple months ago so his history, contribution to the band, and his relationship with Martin in particular sit fresh in my mind. So heartbreaking; I look forward to seeing them live every few years and now... it will never be the same.
Thanks for posting this.
"People Are People" was my first track of theirs. I got to see them live for the first time for the first "Devotional" tour (when The The opened for them).
Andy did so much for the band, as well as others. No one else seems to mention it, but he had his attempt at having his own record label with Toast Hawaii and promoting a band I like, Client. Unfortunately, the label did not survive (this was also around time that I think he was dealing with his restaurant in London, among other things on his plate), but he was always doing something worth while and his legacy will live on in memory.
Rest in peace, Fletch. And to quote someone's posted comment, "rest in sound eternal." You are surely missed.
I recall having a conversation with a man in Rice Lake Wisconsin a few months ago about Deoeche Mode, and he thought Depeche Mode was more or less a one-hit wonder (with that "one hit" being "People Are People"), but I pointed out that they had another album that produced three U.S. top 40 hits. His memory seemed to have gotten jarred when I mentioned "Policy Of Truth," which he'd heard in the Selena movie. Now I realize that I hadn't even scratched the surface regarding Depeche Mode. Thanks, Professor!
Adam, THANK YOU for putting a spotlight on Fletch. He was the glue that held together the band and cannot be easily replaced. You asked in your poll about our favourite song. For me I could not list just one, but if I had to it would be Enjoy the Silence. The World Violation tour was the first time I had seen them live and this song is so powerful live. Thanks for keeping the music alive!
Absolute best tribute I've seen for Fletch anywhere. Thank you.
I thank you for your tribute,i cant believe he's gone.. Depeche Mode and Fletch are and will always be part of my life.. More than just the soundtrack of my life... Forever Depeche Mode and Fletch.
We'll done. Thank you professor. Rest in peace Fletch.
You're a class act Adam. Nice tribute to Fletch, may he RIP.
Broke my heart to see the news about Fletch. :( thank you for covering his death. Also btw he said always that Dave sings, Martin writes the songs, Alan arranges the music, I just bum around. He knew though how important he was.
We teenagers in the GDR always wanted to be so cool like Fletch. One aspect that brought me to the synths after learning to play drums was that I always wanted to wear sunglasses like him and wanted press any keys on a fancy device with a cool move like Fletch.
No matter what his job actually was, he was more important for the band than just bumming around. When Dave and Martin were the testosteron monsters fighting for the title of the most experimental person, Fletch was the man who kept the easy listening part in the songs. I am sure that some songs of the band are not so blatant because of the talent of Fletch. And besides that, as you said, he was somewhat the manager of the band. And the glue that kept the band together.
I find it painful when an icon from our time passes because it reminds us of our own mortality. So enjoy life while you can and the music that inspires you. Live happy!
I am a brazen extrovert, with that being said, I've always been drawn to the quiet intellectuals. I've often said, when an introvert speaks listen, it will usually be worth listening to. That quiet strength and confidence is intriguing, they don't need to suck up all the oxygen in a room. I married an introvert and it's been the best and longest lasting relationship of my life.
Andrew Fletcher is that strong underpinning of Depeche Mode. While Dave and Martin may get most of the limelight, Fletch was the quiet strength of the band.
It is so hard getting older..seeing friends pass, icons that have always been there in your life going away...Depeche is my favorite band of all time and we will miss you Fletch.The last tour I was unable to afford to go on the first leg..but once i saw they added another date here in LA for the 2nd leg i had the gut feeling I needed to go see them..so i paid for a ticket for myself..went by myself to it, but enjoyed and and now I am glad i went more so..having seen his last concert here in the LA area.
Live through their music forever
Adam - Great memoriam! The recent passing of both Fletch and Alan White were tough. All too many legendary musicians have passed between 2016 and the present alone.
Fletch is missed. Fitting that he passed right before the release of Memento Mori. I am taking my son to watch Depeche Mode tomorrow night in Dallas. It will be strange not to see Andrew.
I met Fletch twice. Once on the MFTM tour then again on the Violator tour. Great conversations. When Fletch passed I thought of those conversations. Fletch was a genuinely nice and humble guy who loved the fans. Such a huge loss.
I was rather busy when I first saw the news of Andy's passing but thought I'd see/hear more details later in the day - It didn't happen. My God, I thought, this is a founding fucking member of Depeche Mode, one of the most important and popular bands of all time, he deserved better than a couple of words and DONE. Thanks Prof, thanks for giving him his well earned due... R.I.P. Andy, you will be missed...
Andy Fletch was living legend and now still legend. RIP
Depeche Mode was my first concert in 2018 , My mom saw them on the violator tour in 1990 and has been a fan since people are people , Long Live Andrew ❤️
RIP Fletch.
You'll be missed but your legacy leaves on 😔
Thank you so much for such a beautiful tribute Professor Rock .
Great tribute of cuts featuring Fletch at the end there. A little something got in my eye there towards the end. One of my particular favorites (not shown) is the "My Joy" video in which Andy and Martin "steal" the girl from Dave. The feigned mischievousness of Andy playing off of Martin as they flirt with the waitress always makes me smile when I watch it.
Thanks for this PoR.
Great tribute. RIP Fletch 🙏
RIP Fletch. Thank you for many musical memories!
....weeping...
This is the first time, since I heard, on the 26th of May. That last song.....
It must leave such a hole, in David and Martin's souls.
I am in shock. Life really is but a vapor. He was not much older than me. They captured some of the iconic moments of my Life. Praying for his family.
I was fortunate enough to meet and spend time with DM during The Devotional Tour. (Yikes! That was a long time ago!) Fletch was so very kind. RIP
An ex girlfriend introduced me to this band way back in highschool. I was very late to the party on this band because the first album I heard and owned from Depeche Mode was Ultra. Although we didn't last, my love for this band has!. R.I.P. Andy
My mother introduced me to Depeche Mode while in quarantine in May 2010. When I heard “Just Can’t Get Enough”, I was just mesmerized by the whole thing. So mesmerized that I couldn’t speak. Music has such an exhilarating effect on you sometimes, and this is proof!
Lovely tribute to a stalwart of the best band of all time.
Difficult to know what the future holds but even if the band don't release another thing they've given us a huge amount of pleasure with their music.
RIP Andy Fletcher 🎹
Saw them at the Hollywood Bowl around 10 yrs ago. Iconic. RIP Andy.
Thank you for doing this. I am wiping away tears. Depeche Mode is one of my favorite bands. We always to see them when they tour. The last time we saw them was the night before the Las Vegas shooting. They were Amazing as usual. Rest in Peace Andy, your will forever be in our hearts❤
Forever in our hearts for sure.
I know, this is so tragic! 😢
Just listening - made me cry again.
I discovered Depeche Mode at a time when bands like Korn and Limp Bizkit were popular and Depeche Mode's last album at the time was Ultra. Thanks to the CD club that my mom was subscribed to we had the singles 86>98. I don't think we had the CD on purpose as my parent's didn't seem to be fans but the album art intrigued me enough to give it a spin. They are now one of my favorite bands. Ended up making friends with a guy back in college because he had a t-shirt with the Construction Time Again album cover.
He will be greatly missed.
For sure.
I started listening to DM after the "People are People" release. "World in my Eyes" is the song I relate to, . I am a veteran. I have scars to show the past was real.
I’m 55 now, I cried all night when Fletch passed, I’m not a delusional fan , it was I respected this person since the start ,,,,, ALAN it’s time to return
Beautiful tribute ❤
Thank you for this fitting tribute. ❤
Thanks for watching.
In memoriam, it is always easy to enjoy the silence.
Gods never die. Fletch is watching us from up there
Well done Adam. A touching tribute for sure. ❤. Andy will be missed. 🙏
Thanks Anthony.
@@ProfessorofRock You really are a class act.
Thanks man. Still feels unreal...
Hello fellow Depeche mode Fans...been a fan since 1981 when i first heard " Just cant get enough " ..There were something different about the sound back then..its was different , poppy, upbeat..but sounded really good..i was just discovering music at an age of 11...What i am going to say is that the Guy Andy Fletcher maybe some of us loved to " hate"
actually was the sticking Glue to this band in terms of keeping the band together..so now i fear we have heard the last to this amazing band..May Andy`s Soul Rest In Peace and his family and friends be well in this hard time...i know im late with this but keep doing your great stuff here on youtube Professor Of Rock..a lot of respect for your work..Per Winding Denmark..Last comment: Stipped is my Favourite track..😏
RIP Andy Fletcher. One of my favorite bands growing up.
Great video Professor!
Truly great. Salute you Andy indeed xx
That was a great “send off”…. Andy Fletcher will be missed. Wonder if DM will continue without him? I really hope they do, they’ve been a HUGE part of the soundtrack to my life.
DM is the greatest band ever! When Fletch passed, it gave me another reason to think of my own mortality since he was part of my generation of bands. I didn't get to see them when I was younger, I would've loved to have seen Music for the Masses concert in Pasadena. But I did get to see them way later: 2009 Sounds of the Universe tour and 2013 Delta Machine tour. Great concerts!
What a loss. Thanks Adam ❤️
My brother got me into DM in the early 80's. So sad he passed 🌹RIP Andy🌹
RIP Andy Fletcher. Saw DM on the Violator tour w/Nitzer Ebb opening in Columbia MD. Seems like a lifetime ago.