Andrew Fletcher, historical keyboardist of Depeche Mode, has died at the age of 61.
To give the announcement, on social networks, is the band itself.
"We are shocked and overwhelmed with sadness over the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member and bandmate Andy" Fletch "Fletcher - reads the message -. Fletch truly had a heart of gold and was always there when you had. need support, a lively conversation, a good laugh or a cold pint. Our hearts are with his family. We ask you to keep him in your thoughts and respect family privacy during this difficult time. "
Born in Nottingham on 8 July 1961, Fletcher moved with his family to Basildon at the age of two.
He founds Depeche Mode together with keyboardist Vince Clarke (initially leader and mind of the group) playing bass, but soon switches to keyboards and synthesizers, never completely abandoning the first instrument.
Shortly after the founding of Depeche, Martin Gore and Dave Gahan, current members of the band, join the band.
Since the album "Speak and Spell" (1981), Andrew has often dealt with the managerial part of the band, and has been the glue of Depeche Mode, keeping the band together despite the dark periods that the band went through in the years of success. of "Violator" (1990) and "Songs of Faith and Devotion" (1993) when singer Dave Gahan attempts suicide due to drug abuse and Alan Wilder, another member of the band, leaves the group due to the situation and tensions with Gore and Fletcher.
Over the years Fletcher has also had a solo career as a DJ.
Married to his lifelong girlfriend, Gráinne Mullan, Fletcher leaves behind two children, Meghan and Joe.
In 2020, Fletcher was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.