Icocnic band Depeche Mode has released a statement expressing its “overwhelming sadness” at losing a 60-year-old member.
Depeche Mode legend Andy Fletcher has died at the age of 60.
Shocked fans from around the world paid tribute to the iconic English keyboardist, who brought us hits included I just can’t get enough of it – after learning about his “untimely” death.
In a heartbreaking tribute, the band said: “We are shocked and overwhelmed by the overwhelming sadness of the untimely death of our dear friend, family and bandmate Andy ‘Fletch’ Fletcher.
“Fletch had a real heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh or a cold look.
“Our hearts are with your family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and respect their privacy at this difficult time.”
His cause of death has not been confirmed.
Fletch began making music in the 1970s, and two years ago was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Depeche Mode.
He founded the five-time Grammy-nominated band with Vince Clarke, Martin Gore and Dave Gahan in 1980.
The artist, from Basildon, Essex, released 17 albums with Depeche Mode, the most recent in 2017, and sold 100 million records worldwide.
The electronic band had a number of hits in the 80’s and 90’s, inclusive I just don’t have enough, personal Jesus i Enjoy the silence.
Later in his stellar career, keyboardist Fletch also worked as a DJ, touring Europe.
Friends offered kind words about the devoted Chelsea fan.
One source said: “Andy was an affectionate and loving father and husband who adored his family and friends and was incredibly generous and dedicated to his family.”
Lol Tolhurst, drummer for The Cure, shared a heartfelt tribute to Andy Fletcher after his death was announced.
“Very sad news today. Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has passed,” he tweeted.
“I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same paths as younger men.
“My heart goes out to his family, his bandmates and DM fans. RIP Fletch.”
Carol Decker, lead singer of the band T’Pau, tweeted: “Oh no !!! Fletch was a lovely DM guy, one of my favorite bands of all time, sending all my love to his family friends and to the band members “.
Fans have paid tribute tonight to the much-loved musician.
One wrote online: “Andy Fletcher. This is hard to take. Depeche Mode has been a constant all his life and the 60’s have no age.
“What sad news.”
Another added: “Only three men have been present on each Depeche Mode album. Andy Fletcher is one of them.
“That makes it something that comes close to a god of music in my eyes. RIP Fletch.”
A third said: “Rest in peace Andy Fletcher.
“You were part of something that was so important to me and so many other people, you’re going to miss it so much.”
This story originally appeared in The Sun and is republished here with permission