Andy Fletcher, who was the keyboardist and founding member of Depeche Mode, has died aged 60.
It was announced this evening that he passed away peacefully.
Depeche Mode posted a tribute to Andy on social media, which read: "We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate Andy "Fletch" Fletcher.
"Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint.
"Our hearts are with his family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and respect their privacy in this difficult time."
Andy rose to fame in the 1970s as Depeche Mode gained worldwide success.
In 2020 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Depeche Mode.
Among the fans who flocked to pay tribute to Andy was Lol Tolhurst, who is a founding member of The Cure.
He wrote on Twitter: "Very sad news today. Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has passed. I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same pathways as younger men . My heart goes out to his family, bandmates, and DM fans. RIP Fletch."
Gig promoters Live Nation also shared their sadness at the news.
The company tweeted: "Andy Fletcher was an incredible musician and founding member of one of the most iconic groups of our generation, @DepecheMode. His legacy will forever be felt across the industry and he will be sorely missed."
Carol Decker, lead singer for the band T’Pau, tweeted: “Oh no!!! Fletch was a lovely guy DM one of my all time favourite bands sending all my love to his family friends and band members.”
Pet Shop Boys said in a post on Facebook: “We’re saddened and shocked that Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has died.
“Fletch was a warm, friendly and funny person who loved electronic music and could also give sensible advice about the music business. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends and to Dave Gahan and Martin Gore. Neil & Chris xx”
Andy, who was from Basildon in Essex, founded Depeche Mode alongside Vince Clarke, Martin Gore and Dave Gahan in 1980 and they went on to be nominated for five Grammys.
He went on to release 17 albums with Depeche Mode and sold 100 million records worldwide.
Among the string of hits the groundbreaking electronic band had since the 1980s include Just Can't Get Enough, Personal Jesus and Enjoy the Silence.
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