Tribute to Depeche Mode keyboardist Andy Fletcher

Editor Katie Warkin's  27/5/22

Tributes have been flooding from fans after hearing that Andy ‘Fletch’ Fletcher the Depeche Mode’s keyboardist passed away on Friday.  

The legendary electronic band announced the news of Fletcher's death via social media, saying they were "shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate."  Fletcher, aged 60, leaves behind his wife of 30 years, Grainne, and their two children.  

The death of the keyboardist has come as unexpected news to millions of fans worldwide with many of whom have met Fletcher personally. 

Other fans  simply felt close to him through the music of Depeche Mode.  One fan wrote “I grew up in the United Kingdom and found Depeche Mode with my best friend in 1981 through their single 'New Life'.

Tributes also came in from other pop icons like Synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys who described him as "a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music...

Singer Alison Moyet, who grew up on the same Basildon estate as Fletcher, was left speechless by the news of his death.

US rock band The Smashing Pumpkins, also described the musician as "legendary and inspirational", saying they were "saddened" to hear of his death.

The group were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame two years ago.