Depeche Mode - Just What Exactly Does Fletch Do ?

Andrew Fletcher's role in Depeche Mode has often been misunderstood and sometimes undervalued. In this video, we discuss Fletch's role within the band and also look at some of the keyboard parts which he plays in the live performances.

[@tjwalkup7155]

Fletch was sooo friendly to the audience. I saw them when I was a kid and Fletch copied my dance moves then pointed at me, I altered the dance then pointed to him. This went on for a good portion of the show. At the end he yelled for me to come to the stage I went up to it and he said this is for you! Gave me the drum stick and shook my hand. I still have the drum stick and other times met the band. They were a big influence on me loving electronic music and are the sound track of my life. I shall treasure the memories and the work of this band. Thank you Fletch you will be missed. Rest In Peace

[@MayaMollis]

you have so good memenories- angels dies earlier

[@MayaMollis]

my little son loves depeche mode and imitates dave,s gahan singing kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3iQeH2ehpyGerc

[@VTiDelSol]

What drum stick? Sure you're thinking of the right band her?

[@chrislaplante4787]

AMAZING STORY my DM friend.Thank you for sharing it.I also always adored the way Fletchy would do silly little dances while performing...especially when playing “Tora Tora Tora” in the old school live videos. Man i guess he was the REAL DEAL to interact with you in such a cosmically beautiful and profound way.🤘😎💫

[@tjwalkup7155]

yes he was using it for midi triggers @@VTiDelSol

[@Kubit76]

You forgot something very important of Fletcher’s performances: HIS LIVE CLAPPING!! 😂😂😂

[@VaughnGeorge]

I recon I could dedicate an entire video to "The Fletch Killer Clap!!" V :-)

[@ash23neuro]

@@VaughnGeorge He had a lot of energy and entusiasm on stage until "Music for the Masses Tour". Was dancing and clapping a lot and seemed to have fun.When you take a look at "Devotional" he is barely moving and looks depressed...

[@rubaidaallen2764]

@@ash23neuro That's because he was.

[@ash23neuro]

@@rubaidaallen2764 I know he was. I read about it in "Stripped" by Jonathan Miller. After "Music for the masses" they changed they modus operandi during album recordings and his role was marginalized.

[@danielet612]

ohhh yesss

[@petraa7k906]

RIP Fletch. He may not have played the most leading role on the outside, but he was essential for the chemistry of the band. I can’t picture DM without him. Hope they have keyboards in Heaven.

[@Alex-kh3dv]

So he can stand next to them and not play them?

[@LenOnTheDoor0000]

@@Alex-kh3dv bruh

[@tizianaviapiano4787]

Cosa cavolo scrivete

[@ilsebrauckhoff7689]

I hope they have a cozy pub with great beer, too.

[@jmdavison62]

So essential for the chemistry of the band that Vince Clarke and Alan Wilder quit while he was around.

[@papaquonis]

They did a 7 hour Depeche Mode special on danish radio a couple of years ago. One of the people they talked to was a recording engineer from the Music for the Masses and Violator sessions. He had some great stories to tell, but one of my favourites was about Fletch. While recording Violator at Puk Studios in Denmark (which is located far out in the middle of nowhere, so recording artists stay there - effectively it kind of doubles as a hotel) Alan was obviously in the studio basically all the time, Martin would spend half the time playing computer games and the other half writing and recording. Dave would mostly hide in his room practicing his guitar skills, just turning up to record some vocals when required. But the band and producers kind of agreed (just for the fun of it) to make sure Fletch didn't actually end up playing anything at all on the album, so whenever he came round the studio the others would just pretend like nothing much going on. Even so, he did end up having an impact on the album. DM certainly had ambitions for the album. One of the goals was to make sure that they never used a sound or a beat, that was somehow recognisable. If anyone heard anything like that, they had to scrap it. For one of the tracks, they had spent several days recording and mixing a big arrangement and they were finally really content with the result - until Fletch came by the studio to have a little listen to what they were up to. He heard the song and immediately blurted out something like "awesome, and that part has kind of a Beatles vibe to it". And so, following their own rules, Alan decides to scrap it entirely and start over.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Brilliant story there!! Thank you for sharing !! V;-)

[@DxModel219]

lol that’s hilarious thank you for sharing

[@gloobg4853]

Yes, poor Fletch, most probably he pointed them out to the right direction..

[@chrislaplante4787]

This story was incredible and a blast to read.Thank you for putting SO much time and effort in your comment just to share that with complete strangers like myself.Rock on mate 🤘😎💫🎶🇬🇧

[@bc9616]

You will be missed , Fletch. You will always be the heartbeat of Depeche Mode.

[@grumblekin]

He makes pancakes.... Any band without a pancake man is just a mob.

[@rbrtck]

He also drives and operates the tour chuck wagon--well, someone has to.

[@shadowfreak71972]

bwahahahaa!

[@orsolyakukoriczasrensen1362]

😁

[@NOWtheband]

Absolutely true. We are a mob.

[@LadyViolatorUK1]

Devotees/black swarmers x

[@martinmak2885]

Andrew Fletcher is the luckiest guy in all entire music industry ever.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

He does ZERO and is handsomely paid.

[@augmentedkeys5971]

Yes, exactly for doing nothing.,

[@MonoLith2049]

Martin Maksylewicz even more luckier than Charlie watts or Andrew Ridgeley

[@ghostburgers4284]

Says the guy that doesn't even work in the music industry lol.

[@claudiocruzat8777]

Well. Catch planes at 5:00 am then at 6:pm the same day or the next.Jet Lag gallore. Do that stuff for 30 years or so. Sleep in buses for at least the first years THEN come here and type. You dont have to be Nicolo paganini in order to suffer.

[@MrGlasspider]

Fletch is perfectly fine standing on stage, pretending he's doing something. Leave him alone =D

[@VaughnGeorge]

LOL!!! v:-)

[@ColonelRoge]

Moving in time to the beat was also something he tried to imitate. No offence Fletch 🙏

[@compfox]

Dave Gahan once described his friendship with the other two members like that: Martin and me are like different pages in the same book. Andrew and me are different pages, too. But not even in the same book.

[@pandabakajin]

OMG, I feel bad for laughing at this lol

[@persona83]

Lol! I remember reading some interesting DM memories on Alan's site. Seems Dave was good friends with Alan.

[@SkyeID]

In a 1997 interview, (post rehab), Dave said, "I wear Martin's feelings on my sleeve... and they fit..."

[@TheAlpfire]

I met Fletch 37 yrs ago when he was having his hair cut in London. He was lovely and spent time talking to me even though I was a nervous wreck. He made me so happy and I was so pleased to have met him.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Bob Can thanks for sharing 👍😎V

[@sobrevalorado]

Congratulations. So what?

[@TheAlpfire]

@@sobrevalorado Moron.

[@Sarasapien]

Wow, what a lucky guy! Nice :)

[@TheAlpfire]

@@Sarasapien He was a true gentleman. x

[@thomasraukamp]

I can't understand the cynicism about Fletch's part. He might not be a live keyboard wizard like Herbie Hancock or Howard Jones, but then again he doesn't pretend to be. He's a humble, very intelligent man who doesn't like to be and doesn't need to be in the spotlight. His role is behind the scenes, and he keeps the band together and does a lot of the organizational stuff - without him, the whole construct wouldn't be running for a long time anymore. To me, it would be enough if he turned up to say hello during a concert, I would be happy with that. A little respect for a man being in the business since ages and played in front of millions of people wouldn't hurt. Interesting video btw, more of that, please.

[@VaughnGeorge]

well said my friend and I am sure that the vast majority of fans agree with you. No one really hates fletch but its an interesting conversation topic!! Thank you for your interest in the channel !! V :-)

[@FixerUK]

The first few lines of Now This Is Fun sum up Fletch's role.⚒⛓📢👑🌹💡⚜✋🔺

[@rubaidaallen2764]

I have nothing against him, great guy I'm sure. It's just that Alan was super disrespected and I feel that was wrong. I've got nothing against Andy. I met him once, very sweet guy. Just bring Alan back that's all.

[@kingtrance307]

@@@VaughnGeorge Make sure you stay politically correct. You wouldn't want to have the balls to actually own an opinion on anything.

[@departmentofdate2263]

King Trance omg. Wtf? Politically correct? Are you saying that someone has to have a wild opinion on everything? Maybe someone is MODERATE, let them be so.

[@strychnyne3530]

Fletch is Martins best friend. That's why he's in the band.

[@markandsteve]

I think you nailed it! 😁

[@rbrtck]

That's why Fletch is in the band, but it is also why Martin originally joined the band. Fletch gets to stay because Martin and Dave are grateful to Fletch for helping Vince assemble the band in the first place.

[@glennoc8585]

I thought vince was fletchs best mate.

[@rbrtck]

​@@glennoc8585 It's hard to know without having been there personally at the time, and of course things change over time, including friendships. That said, from what I gather and am reasonably sure about, Vince's "best" friend back in the day was Robert Marlow, who was likewise an ambitious singer-songwriter (Vince actually sang lead back then). The two were among the leaders of the music scene in Basildon and had been in bands together, but clashed creatively, so they decided to remain buddies and form/join different, competing bands. Many bands quietly came into and went out of existence, and at one point Vince and Fletch formed No Romance in China. Vince knew Fletch from the Boys' Brigade (a Christian boys' club). I'm not sure how close they were; they were friends, but Vince always called Robert his best friend. Meanwhile Fletch had known Martin since they were young children, as they went to the same school, and in later years they seemed very close, so I'm guessing that they were closer friends than Vince and Fletch, but I'm not absolutely sure. I am sure that Vince didn't know Martin well at all, although eventually Fletch got Martin to join the Boys' Brigade, so they got to know each other at least a little. They all lived in Basildon, but Vince went to a different ("enemy" or rival) school, while Fletch, Martin, and for that matter Alison Moyet all went to the same school. Vince sure knew *of* Martin and his talents, though, and got Fletch to convince his friend (perhaps his "best" friend?) to join them, forming Composition of Sound. Martin agreed but also remained a member of the band French Look, which was led by Robert. Vince and Robert were unhappy with each other, basically fighting over Martin, so did Fletch become Vince's new best friend at this time? I don't know, but the two bands did gigs together and sabotaged each other at the same time, so Vince and Robert were pretty much "frenemies" at this point--very complicated. Dave was also sort of with French Look at the time as their assistant, by the way. I think Robert knew he could sing well, but Robert saw himself as the singer and band leader, so he did nothing with Dave (aside from letting him carry and set up their gear), while Vince heard Dave singing one night after a combined gig, called him up, and invited him to join Composition of Sound as the lead singer, which he did, forming Depeche Mode. So basically the two core members of Depeche Mode were both with Robert's band, and Vince lured them away (when pressed to choose, Martin chose to leave French Look and stay with Depeche Mode). Vince can't be accused of stealing success, however, since none of these people would have gotten anywhere without him. Vince also tried to help Robert get going in the business later, so they were still friends after all of this, although Robert's career didn't quite pan out. And of course Vince soon left Depeche Mode after he and Dave made them a big success, and formed Yazoo with Alison, whom they all at least knew of. In terms of friendships, make of this what you will. I believe that Fletch was closer to Martin than to Vince, but only they really know. Since then, Vince and Fletch have remained friends, but obviously Fletch and Martin have been though so many more things together.

[@spendingtimetogether8428]

@@rbrtck thanks for this 👍

[@jh8551]

I don’t think people understand the value in a consistent sober band mate that doesn’t need to have a showy attitude or personality. Dependable.

[@cs0rpc]

Dependable to do... nothing? You don’t need sobriety for that

[@pedroroggla8129]

@@cs0rpc I dont think the band would have kept him if he was a total useless ... sometimes when you are in a band you need someone who bring some humanity and understanding, it doesnt matter if he sux you know...

[@cs0rpc]

@@pedroroggla8129 doesn’t really justify his position as a supposed musician

[@pedroroggla8129]

@@cs0rpc evidently thats not the way the rest of thr group thinks, maybe they enjoy having him there

[@cs0rpc]

@@pedroroggla8129 They literally do think that though. Dave and Martin have both said that Fletch does nothing in the studio and that he is given parts to play live, but they’re not taxing at all. So, they don’t regard him as any sort of musician.

[@jorgeandresarango3803]

I also remember a documentary where Dave talked about the Alan´s audition to join Depeche Mode. They tried to kill him making him play both Vince and Martin´s parts at the same time to make him fail, and Alan played the whole thing including some bass parts (Fletch parts) very easily.

[@kstats8243]

Jorge Andrés Arango damn for real? Brutal. It would have been funny and ironic that he failed to play fletchs part properly and was denied a call back. The nerve of Fletch. Haha.

[@Andres.0772]

Do you have that link my friend?

[@Hirnlego999]

@@Andres.0772 Either Martin or Dave has joked that if Alan could have an erect penis on stage he could play with that too.. edit: spelling bees as cees

[@kimble02]

Trekking S It’s I think in the Broken Frame re-masters vid? When they released the re-masters they also had additional singles and a video about each album. They mentioned that none of them were classically trained so they tried to foul him up and get him to play both bass and melody with both hands since it was “difficult” for everyone else in the band to do so. Of course Alan did it easily. Hell, it may have even been Alan saying that. Can’t recall but it was one of the re-master vids. I’d start with Broken Frame. Pretty sure that one (not all of them) is on KZbin.

[@carlitafp]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGKad5tjh5l9htU here is the interview where they talk about the audition :)

[@jaggass]

Fletchers's role in Depeche Mode is to look like an Elton John tribute act.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Michael David hahahhaha that’s hilarious mate!! Did make me laugh 😂!! Yeah his role is to look like Elton John but the only difference being that Elton can really really play!! 😎👍V

[@privatevasquez731]

Rest in peace, Fletch. Rest in peace. You were the heart of the band for so long. Keeping you three together.

[@incognoscente]

Fletcher in 2013: "Within the band, I contribute the element of pop. Martin L. Gore, who writes most of the songs, loves American blues and country. And Dave has discovered jazz for himself. I, however, will probably eternally feel loyal to the simple pop melodies and the lightness they stand for."

[@ОльгаВертинская-н4в]

Several years ago Fletch was in my city as a dj. It was in a kind of night club, not many people, and I had to admit his dj skills were poor, but I really enjoyed that performance, the music he chose, the energy he made and even how humble he was.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Ольга Вертинская thank you for sharing your story with us!!😎V👍

[@thomasgary1219]

I've always gotten the impression that Martin and Dave have remained fiercely loyal to fletch because he's been around since the beginning of dm and will always let him hang around and tour with them as long as he wants whether he actually does anything or not.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

I think it's more Martin. I suspect that David wants Alan to rejoin the band or at least hopes that will happen.

[@thomasgary1219]

Rubaida Allen I think you're absolutely right. Alan is a genius...

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thomas Gary agreed with that yep!!V 😎👍

[@sephlar]

Not only do I agree with you @Thomas... I applaud Martin and Dave for it. There is something to be said for loyalty.

[@nevermind2509]

Let's not forget that Fletcher is Gore's best friend. They know each other since they were kids.

[@b17marko]

I love listening to those sounds even in their bare form, I am no musician but I would say that Fletch is the rhythm section of the band, I bloody love Depeche Mode, 40 years of music and still going strong, no other band in the world can claim that longevity.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Amen to that brother !! V :-)

[@howardshillingford4997]

This is the man that arranged the bass lines and during live work, makes sure everything is in order. Programing wise. (sound effect and sampled sounds) As for Mr Wilder. I too miss him. He was their "Orchestra". It has been years now since his departure but the band is still going on. I'm happy. My point is. They are still with us and for that, I too will clap my hands. Best wishes to all D.M. devotes

[@howardshillingford4997]

By the way MarkoBricksUk. U2! Same line up. Have a great day.

[@HipixOFFICIAL]

Pet Shop Boys.

[@2112jonr]

Rush beat that. Still ahead even though the great Neil Peart is no longer with us.

[@edgodsall3740]

He wore leather trousers, clapped, moved a mic stand, stood behind a synth/ sampler with a bout 3 samples for an hour and half gig…

[@robyoung9968]

I love DM , and will always miss Alan Wilder! Some very clever and funny comments..

[@paulwilson7562]

RIP Andy Fletcher, my heart is breaking.

[@MayLily]

Fletch was one of the true founding members of DM- he was there with Vince Clarke, before Martin and Dave were even on board. He will always be missed. I wish I could have gone to see the band on their last tour when Fletch was still there.

[@stanislav182000]

To be honest, I believe, Andy's parts were pre recorded. I remember Alan said, that during their concerts when Alan looked at Fletcher, he knew , that nothing was going on there.

[@VaughnGeorge]

I agree with you!! VG :-)

[@88feji]

@@VaughnGeorge The question is whether Fletcher CREATED those parts he played ... or was it assigned to him to play it after Alan had created it in the studio ... In Alan's statements it sound like he was mainly the guy who worked through the nights to come up with all the synth riffs and sounds based on Gore's bare bone melodies and lyrics ... And the rest of the band would just come in to record the song after Alan had the amazing background music engineered overnight in an act of musical inspirations after inspirations ... Thats why he felt unappreciated because he felt he was responsible for the bulk of all the great sounds he engineered on the keyboards but does not get any specific credits with his name alone (producer was credited as "Depeche Mode" while Gore would get song writing credit by his own name) .. And its true that DM's greatness owes greatly to the type of very recognisable, atmospheric and improvisional synth sounds without which the lyrical and melodic contents would probably make for just some above average songs rather than a great musical experience ...

[@FireMunki63]

I also don't believe Andy plays ANYTHING live. I have watched many live shows and often his fingers just hover, other than when he does nothing or is just clapping. Embarrasing.

[@jonnylpenman]

@@FireMunki63 There is a video somewhere that proves he is actually plugged in. I'll find it Edit: this is not it but... kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXXNd4CFhbFsapI Here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5u8lneuh6Z-npY

[@ash23neuro]

A. Wilder about Fletch's solo album: “An album called Toast Hawaii - Fletch’s favourite dish from Hansa studios’ café - which featured Fletch singing cover versions of his favourite tunes such as ‘When The Saints Go Marching In’ - accompanied by myself and/or Martin on piano - does exist somewhere. It was recorded in Berlin on a cassette machine in about 1983, and I took the photo for the album cover - a shot of Fletch; think Plug from The Bash Street Kids! We did, however, have problems convincing Dan Miller that it was worth releasing.”

[@greckendale]

HE STARTED THE BAND! A small detail everyone conveniently forgets. Maybe he is a mastermind genius, who knew what he was doing all along. Like the Rupert Murdoch of the music industry.

[@rbrtck]

Not quite. Vince Clarke was the mastermind, but Fletch was a mutual friend of his and Martin's, and Vince needed Fletch to help recruit Martin, who was well known in their social circle to be a good songwriter, into DM from the band he was already in.

[@greckendale]

rbrtck I know man, but Fletch was the conduit, with his bass guitar in tow. If Fletch didn’t exist, Depeche would not exist. We would have Erasure Mode, which would’ve been one album, then Vince would’ve walked.

[@rbrtck]

@@greckendale No argument here. As I said in another, longer comment somewhere, DM as we know it would not exist without Fletch, who I called its "central" founder. I just meant that Vince was originally the mastermind, and he coveted having Martin in the band, but it was Fletch who delivered him. And without Martin, of course the definitive lineup of DM (which for me also includes Alan) would have never been. It's impossible to tell what else would have happened if Fletch hadn't been able to recruit Martin. With his plan thwarted, Vince might have called up Alison Moyet earlier and formed Yazoo-plus-Fletch. ;) One way or another, I bet that Vince would have eventually made it in the business (after all, he did start three highly successful bands), while Martin probably would not, since he wasn't confident and maniacally driven like Vince was. We would have missed out on Martin's songwriting entirely. It was joining DM and then Vince leaving them seemingly in the lurch that really lit a fire in Martin to prove himself.

[@sonicocr]

I was present in the stage of one Depeche Mode Concert in 1994. maybe one or two fingers in some moments, but must of the time nothing, he didn't do anything with his EMAX II samplers ... I enjoy alot the concert but the guy maybe its a friend or business man of the band.

[@55tranquility]

When Fletch did have a microphone on stage it is common knowledge it was never turned on - so he just mimed ffs! (this is mentioned in more than one interview) more recently he doesn’t have a mike on stage - Alan also taught Daryl Bamonte’s all of Fletchers live parts in one week in a hotel room when he left the last leg of the SOFAD tour and Darryl a non musician stood in for him - that says it all IMO.

[@VaughnGeorge]

nick wood hahhaha yeah well said mate !! Fletch is such a clown really 😂V

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Exactly right

[@momtnz]

The late Matt Fretton toured with them as support (with backing tapes) and he said at the time that he reckoned Fletch's vocals and keyboards never made it past the band's monitors. Ultra is the only good post-Alan Wilder album, and they used two programmers - he was clearly missed for his technical input. Playing The Angel - two programmers.....

[@VaughnGeorge]

Momtnz two programmers used yes that’s right !!😎👍V

[@massiveredlight]

nick wood you can clearly hear Fletch vocals in blasphemous rumours on bootleg "une nuit a la mode".

[@e.g.348]

The only thing he's done is to take care of serving coffee from the very beginning... God ! How I miss Alan.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Eliana Gianoli haha a human coffee machine brilliant !! 😎V👍

[@neilbradley]

"We all know Alan Wilder's part (of Just Can't Get Enough)." Uh... that's Vince Clarke, not Alan Wilder.

[@MonoLith2049]

Yes I spotted that! But he says he bought them so I took it to mean wilder played these live on stage. Wilder didn't join till a year or 2 after speak and spell

[@Lofote]

It was about the live play of the song from 1982 on.

[@GVike]

THIS! What an absolute f*** up. Even if Wilder played it later, it's CLARKE'S PART.

[@Lofote]

@@GVike Did you read any answers on this thread? It was about the LIVE performance of the song starting 1982...

[@jorgeandresarango3803]

Alan reversioned it for live shows with some darker excerpts.

[@luisrodrigonunezolguin7038]

I regret his passing, but it is time for Allan Wilder to return!!!!

[@brody5211]

Go away .

[@luisrodrigonunezolguin7038]

@@brody5211 in memory of Andy obviously

[@kstats8243]

Stripped is also one of my favorites. Great song. The whole Black Celebration LP is brilliant.

[@kstats8243]

Rather fond of that song.

[@Electromozart]

I just cannot believe this happened today. Andy will be missed by many.

[@shadowfreak71972]

Thanks very much, Vaughn for illustrating for us a question many Depeche Mode fans and even more casual guests have had since watching the band live. There's Dave, hard at work 57 years old, shaking his butt like he's 27 and leering at the women while belting out the tunes. There's Martin, singing as well, albeit a bit more conservatively behind his microphone, though the guitar that looks to be three times too big for his frame might be part of the reason he's not moving much and that's O.K. When Alan was with them, he was up there, in back with those long, nimble fingers flying across the keys, the picture of confidence and control, glancing out every once-in-a-while to survey the rest of the band and the crowd in front of him, but wholly intent on the work at hand. And then there was Fletch. Fletch was... enthusiastic. He pumped his arms, he clapped, sometimes he had a hand on one of the keyboards/synths in front of him, but nobody really knew how useful he was or if he left the band, whether anyone would really notice his absence. And we truly felt bad about feeling that way. He's a founding member of DEPECHE MODE! To ask questions of that nature seems so... disrespectful! Yet, try as we might, we couldn't help but wonder! And you're 100% correct: I did try to play keyboard in high school and one thing that is terribly difficult to do is to play a simple, repetitive melody or baseline more than eight times in a row-especially when you're timing it to a drum machine or other electronically "perfect" rhythm. Great video, Vaughn! Keep 'em coming!

[@marccartledge2752]

Stripped is a beautiful piece of music the melodies are perfect

[@Scott-fj9uf]

When I saw them live Fletch was so engaging with the audience 🧡

[@TrueFaith94]

It's a travesty that you've overlooked his air punching. #justiceforandy

[@ginohernandez3770]

He's in charge of getting the fish and chips after the show.

[@VaughnGeorge]

LOL!!! V :-)

[@adama4791]

What is up with many of you? Why do you feel the need to say mean things about Fletch? I’d get it if he was an asshole because then he’s an asshole “supposed musician” but by many accounts in these comments he was a great guy and DM remained loyal to him and he to them until his passing. Fletch was Fletch and that’s all he ever needed to be.

[@jakooboo147]

RIP Fletch, we love you man. You were my formative drummer, and I'll try to keep that energy up. Love you, brother.

[@lucianoozorio7763]

He claps the hands..

[@RolandTheArtist]

RIP Andrew "Fletch" Fletcher!

[@ERICF66]

Here’s a big question regarding Fletch. Why did he not learn how to play over all these years? I would have thought that just through their 80s glory years he would have gotten quite proficient at playing. How could anyone not after doing music for 10-11 years at that point?? I don’t get it.

[@VaughnGeorge]

ERIC F I’ve always wondered this myself!! All he really had to do was focus and practice . 😎V👍

[@rbgabor89]

Right here is my two cents on Fletch... I do believe he is great solid player. I mean if you look at videos up untill the Music for the Masses tour he pretty solidly playing all the bass lines live with some occasional lead like Everything Counts. But he can play. I think the fault comes from that around MFTM he became more like a manager type of person for the band. I think on 101 there are a few scenes with him on the phones to radios and stuff like that. There is also in my opinion the Alan WIlder factor. No doubt Alan was the brains of the group especially around this time. And I think Alan maybe did not think Fletch was a real musician like him, so he relied on him less and less. I mean if you listen to the backing tapes from the violator tour, you can hear that other than Martin's guitar and Alan's main synth lines everything else was on the tape, which If i would be Fletch it, sucks. So after Alan left, and around or after exciter if i remember correctly Martin and Dave werent on speaking terms because of the song writing credits and him and Jonathan Kessler were the ones to get the two working again. Which is a pretty big feat if you think about it. We can also see that from the time Ultra came out, Fletch took over as spoke person for the band, when they are announcing new albums and he is the one who always take time to speak with fans on tour or even at random events. I think Fletch is underrated and if they would give him more things to play he would be a great player and not just known for his killer claps (which sounds like a sexual disease haha). Also If you think about it from SOTU the melodies got simpler, minimalistic. So there is not much left to play for 3 person on stage. I mean lets just think about that Peter Gordeno now plays bass on Pain, and played bass on Personal Jesus i think at the KROQ Almost Acoustic show. Anyway this is my opinions so you can always ignore it haha. Great video and I hope one day you get to interview the real Fletch.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Well written and very detailed post there Gabor!! Thank you very much!! Really enjoyed it !! V:-)

[@LadyViolatorUK1]

Great post x

[@julianvalderramaescalante8758]

Yes a sober figure that give us more depeche mode to enjoy so much more valuable than alan wilder in the long term so my love and respect to fletcher

[@JR-zv6qm]

Let's be serious please. Fletcher's musical input is sparse to say the least. He can play ok. But he's not talented at all, musically speaking. So what, he plays the basslines. DM is not known for it's basslines. I don't begrudge Andy any accolades or success, but his impact on the music is next to nil. Always was curious why a solid musician like Adam Clayton who has written great basslines & is so integral in U2's music gets so much jealousy hate on YT & Fletcher is spared that kind of hate. I wish no hate on Andy as he is a good guy, but just curious. Great video, thanks for the upload. Show less

[@adrianobonelli746]

Very good post! :) I agree

[@fmgypsy]

I love this video! Great explanation of everyone’s parts. Thank you!

[@fbowie21]

Fletcher's contribution is negligible. It's offensive really that he makes so much money. If I was Alan I would be irritated as well

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Amen to that. He is rolling in some serious l'argent my friend. He's become a f'n millionaire while doing ZERO.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Fred Hand yes you’re right matey!!😎👍V

[@stevenbakos]

Alan released the bands samples years ago to the public. It’s not a secret...

[@VaughnGeorge]

Yes, the samples are virtually public domain these days. V :-)

[@aoifependry1029]

Where would I get these?

[@locksmithuk]

I get that Fletch did simple things, some of which had to be 100% accurate in order not to strike a tonal misstep [like, say, the bass drone sound], but in all honesty how difficult is your life when you simply have to remember a simple task or two, or when your job is to muck around with sound samples for future tracks? A teenager could do it after his/her homework on an average afternoon. The gulf in respective contributions between Alan Wilder and Andy Fletcher to Depeche Mode’s music is vast. It’s not a fair fight at all. It’s Tyson vs a toddler. Clapping on stage and wandering around while banging hammers on pipes is not in the same league as a classically-trained pianist whose ear is capable of setting subtle tonal platforms on entire album after entire album [without the listener even realising it], or constructing simple, perfect melodies. For instance, take apart the song Here Is The House on the Black Celebration album, and count how many overlapping melodies are woven into that track… all perfectly timed and toned. Musically speaking, I can barely tie my own shoelaces, but I reckon I could’ve done Fletch’s job quite competently…. and I’d have done it for free! Martin Gore is not stupid, but I suspect that he may be weak. It must’ve occurred to him just what a colossal loss Wilder’s departure would be - it certainly was to anyone who listened to the band’s first post-Wilder album! With the band about to completely fall apart when Dave Gahan did his speedball-in-the-bathroom trick, there was probably still time for Gore to get Wilder back. I reckon the prospect of offending his old school buddy Fletcher is what stopped him. If only he’d been as ruthless as, say, Angus Young in ACDC - who dispensed with Brian Johnson for the good of his band - is a lesson to band leaders of what to do when push comes to shove. I’d reckon that the deterioration in Depeche Mode’s musical quality after Wilder left is one of the biggest wastes of potential in the last generation. My last DM gig was in London in 2006, and I vowed never to go to another one because of how pitifully lost the band had become in its musical ideas. It wasn't awful, but it was like watching a bunch of blokes going through the motions for the sake of moolah, and I resented it as a fan. Subconsciously I think I was probably still angry about the idiotic decision to let Wilder go, but hey, it's not my monkey / not my circus. The band could have - and should have - gone on to enjoy a monster legacy in the electronic music scene… and maybe even redefined it. Instead, it’s now all ifs and maybes.

[@VaughnGeorge]

locksmithuk brilliant comment thank you!! 😎👍V

[@rbrtck]

I agree with the vast majority of what you said, except that Alan's own decision to leave wasn't made lightly and was final, so there was no way they could have gotten him back. For various reasons, including some he didn't quite understand himself, Alan was burnt out on DM and being a rock star--as he put it, "something inside me died," and I don't think he is prone to exaggeration or histrionics. He was done and could no longer see himself, particularly at his age, continuing in this type of career. He wanted to work with other people and do different things musically, which he has done.

[@Lawtasaj]

Totally right!!

[@SHOPFLOORTONE]

When Fletch left the tour in '94 due to nervous exhaustion, management took over his keyboard parts on stage! Bloody management! That's how valued Fletcher is to the band's output. One of the reasons why Wilder left was because he was spending hours upon hours getting the sound right on Gores demos and at the end of it all Fletcher got the same royalties for doing sod all! Alan should've stayed and Fletch should've been the one to leave.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Many fans have said this and agree with you on this!! VG :-)

[@miqueasvalentinhernandez3998]

@@VaughnGeorge But in a band, all the members have the royalties. True or false?

[@VaughnGeorge]

@@miqueasvalentinhernandez3998 that really depends on what deal was set up and no two deals are the same. I can tell you that as the chief songwriter, Martin has made the most money for sure!! VG :-)

[@hydesleipnir2576]

I'd love to hear you dissect the keyboard parts to pretty hate machine

[@reresimone4300]

basically…nothing. he was martin’s best friends.oh yes, forgotten, very apt at waiving plastic bananas…essential to their sound, of course

[@EM.1.]

Flecther's skills can be recorded whereas Wilder was a machine within itself

[@DingKong]

Obviously I'm late to this video as I've just really discovered your work (which is awesome) - but I always thought that Fletch (RIP) played more keyboard in the early days as he had a basic knowledge of music and keys. As the band matured and the music became more complex he did less 'musically' as it was getting beyond his level. I think he could play keyboard to a certain degree. Please correct me if I'm not correct. Your example of him playing those notes in Behind The Wheel is a great example. Loving your content; it's fantastic.

[@brody5211]

Well said …

[@syracusemusic1539]

I get in the early days that Fletch played mostly bass parts during the Speak and Spell period. But I’m convince it was mostly Martin and Alan playing. There was documentary called Dark Progression and Andy McLuskey (from OMD )who supported Depeche Mode during the 101 tour stated that Fletch did nothing on the synth. But handled mostly the business side of things.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Syracuse Music 1986: Thank you for your comment. Yes I do recall seeing that video clip of Andy McCluskey talking about this. I will post another video regarding the subject so keep following the channel for many more videos coming soon !! V :-)

[@syracusemusic1539]

No probs dude

[@alejandromorales8715]

I'm afraid I disagree too. Maybe I'm biased becasue I admit I can't stand the man. And not just because of his lack of musical talent - I agree most of the parts you showed are played by him indeed - but I think his presence in DM has tarnished the band and its full potential. Alan and him hated each other, Dave and him hated each other (and they still don't like each other). And I was told some stories about him by people in the know which make him responsible of putting the band's existence in serious, serious jeopardy, particularly during the Violator era. It's great you showed he does indeed play a little ( even though I've watched him mime too), because it's true, but I actually think he gets way more respect than he deserves. As for sticking to a managerial role, well, it seems Jonathan Kessler does a better role at it.

[@VaughnGeorge]

@@alejandromorales8715 : Brilliantly stated my friend !! I did think to myself when I made that video how simplistic Fletch's parts really are. He must be the world's most overpaid keyboard player if you consider how little he does !! Many musicians have been contacting me and said they to have seen him clearly miming and pretending to play when it was obvious that what he was doing made no sense. I'm sure we keyboard players could spot it easily !! :-) V

[@rubaidaallen2764]

He didn't play anything. Trust.

[@HowToLootBrazil]

that doock-doockedoock-doockedoock is not a locomotive but actually the sampled ignition of dave's porsche 911 (or was it a 944?). 🙂 i remember it from an article in german teen mag bravo back in the days.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you !! I love the way you wrote out the "doock-doockedoock-doockedooc" Brilliant !! V:-)

[@ouindiliu4531]

7:00 that's Vince Clarke's part!!!

[@jacopodainotto4084]

17:55 Fletch: Alan, IS THERE SOMETHING TO DO? IS THERE SOMETHING TO DO?

[@kingofclips6359]

DM stated in an interview that Martin is the songwriter, Dave is the singer, Alan is the technician, and Fletch is the businessman.

[@SkyeID]

He counts the money, and divides it equally among the lads.

[@mustafaakovaa7583]

Flatcher still can't play keyboard.. That is why Alan left the group.It's been 40 years and still can't play flatcher keyboard.

[@danny0486]

RIP Fletch. InDMode forever..🙏🥲

[@Aurum1977]

Bear in mind that these sound come from Alan Wilder Emax banks. So these are what Alan used to play. No fletch sounds in here.

[@bobbyweigel1884]

Actually in the case of Behind the Wheel the sounds are for both Fletch and Alan's parts.

[@Aurum1977]

Bobby Weigel who told you that? Do you have an Emax sampler and the Alan Wilder Zip disks? Those are the only banks available since AW has auctioned them. He sold all his musical equipment like Emaxes. Emulators and drumachines. I happen to have an Emax 1 and all the zips disks as well as an emulator2 Xmas Island bank also coming from Alan. It’s all Alan my friend. I bet Fletch doesn’t even know what an Emax is... do you? kzbin.info/www/bejne/bn-Zap-qYt55odk

[@bobbyweigel1884]

@@Aurum1977 He's seen in performance footage playing that lead part. My guess is that since he frequently only had one part to play on any given song, it's likely that there are many cases where he shares the same keyboard sound bank with Alan and/or Martin, particularly when he's playing something other than bass synth.

[@Amylnitrate-f9b]

@@bobbyweigel1884 In Behind The Wheel Fletch played the flute sound and percussion, along with Dave's Porsche sound.

[@mojito28]

Babyblue57 Alan couldn’t play the flute part, because his both hands were busy (final part).

[@andyw3152]

We were gutted when it was announced that Alan was leaving and not Fletch. Fletch bough nothing to the table, his main role was to wave his arms in the air during concerts.

[@MK3FAN99]

Rest in Peace Fletch His legacy will live on Forever!

[@colin_a]

I see DM's music and creativity seems to have dried up over the last few years.. Gore and Gahan can only come up with so much..., they need a new injection of inspiration.. Maybe they could bury their differences with Wilder and have one last go at it all.., he brought a lot to them before..

[@OmarLopez-gj5fy]

Actually, Alan played all mercy in you samples. That it's why all the samples are in his banks, there are Fletch's banks for the devotional and 101 but they are so hard to get. On in your room, there are choir samples but one chord in one key, for fletch play. That it's a little bit funny, Alan was the master, and fletch, well...

[@VaughnGeorge]

Omar López thank you for clarifying this matey !! Glad to have you on the channel !! V 😎👍

[@ALTERNATIVEMIXTAPES]

You have a rhythm guitarist, a bass player, and a lead guitarist. I wonder if all bass players and rhythm guitarists are mocked the same as Fletch.

[@patriciachisholm6246]

I found this channel today and happy I did! Depeche Mode are unique, and Vaughn breaks down their composition both musically and personally well. I found, like many other fans, it's the intellectual authenticity of Martin's "voice" that keeps fans all these years. For their current music, Dave and Martin's co-written songs are the ones I find I like the most. As to the topic of "what does Fletch do besides deliver wicked live clapping?" Many "fans" argue that he doesn't pull his weight, he's lucky to still be along for the ride. What Vaughn points out so well, is his integral role in the band. I have always thought as Andy as the seamstress that stings them all together. Take out all of the parts he plays, and you'd only have a melody, and a voice may be enough for a song but not enough for a band to iconic.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Patricia Chisholm thank you fur an awesome post and kind words!! Welcome onboard!! VG👍🎹😎

[@josephstone6331]

The bass notes for Behind the Wheel (from Music For The Masses) are the same exact notes that were also used for Dressed In Black (from the Black Celebration album) just played in a different rhythmic pattern... and I have had several online conversations with Alan Wilder back when he used to do Q&A chat sessions on his official Shunt website and he admits that in the early days of DM and all the way up until his departure, the bass lines and drum tracks for the majority of their songs were almost always pre-recorded on tape or pre-programmed so that the main parts and lead lines and accompanying parts could be played live by Alan and Martin primarily; Fletch simply "mimed" most of his parts, if not all of them. I've watched many live videos and even seen the band play live numerous times and watched Fletch's hands while on stage, he doesn't play the right keys and doesn't put his hands in the right areas of the keyboard in order to play those parts correctly. I'm a musician and producer and I've covered many DM songs in my career so I'm extremely familiar with DM's material and the way Alan and Martin write and arrange the parts. I will give Fletch the credit he deserves for being who he is in the band but I don't agree that he played as many parts or even did as much on stage as people think he has done. Don't get me wrong, I still think that DM is one of the greatest synth-pop bands that ever was, but I also am realistic enough to realize that the core of the bands success really came from Vince, Martin, Alan and Dave... plus the myriad of producers they have worked with over the years; but even Fletch himself admits in the 101 video - "I just bum around"

[@VaughnGeorge]

Joseph Stone thanks for this detailed and well written post!! Absolutely agree with you on everything you said there!! Cheers and welcome to the community 👍😎V

[@glennoc8585]

Most bands especially electrinic acts now use loaded back tracks and only play fills or improvs to reduce margins of error and also to better interact with the audience. Ive got friends that use loop pedals and rack pedals with tracks for playing that second or third overlay. You sort-of have to if your music is very instrument layered and you're just a 3 piece. Technology has allowed Martin less time on the keys live and more up front on guitar. Alan sold on his old synths and samplers because now its just a basic keyboard hooked to the laptop. As mentioned the mixer is handling the backing but its all doable by a stroke of the key at the stage.

[@neilsun2521]

Yeah. That makes sense to me. Playing those bass keys live would be incredibly risky -- the slightest little hand slip and it would sound stupid! (Unnecessary stress while performing.)

[@christopherjohnson4276]

I saw Depeche mode many times in the 80s and 90s and other than Martin playing guitar... They werent playing anything lol.

[@thehighpriestess8431]

Go away!

[@greg55666]

I'll keep watching this, but I want to comment that personally I could not care less who does what in live settings on stage. I'm only interested in their contributions to the music itself. You, I, anyone could be hired to stand at a keyboard on stage and play whatever part they gave us. Who adds what to the *sound* is the question. (But I'm only 8 minutes in; maybe you talk about that more later.) In the Get Back documentary, for instance, we saw that the "song writing" was only a tiny part of the process. Making it into the song was a completely collaborative process. What about DM? I watched another interview recently with Dave from the '80s where he was talking about how they would spend days getting a certain sample or certain sound right--it sounded like they were all involved in that. So Andy was surely involved in the music production as well: HOW? Did he have a particular input, a particular talent or spin on things?

[@BeltMarco]

I actually think that playing with concentration is a basic requirement for a professional. I would rather like to know whether, besides playing, Andy's part in songs' design and production, or not...

[@XavsLo]

If I were you, I would be really really happy having all the presets DM used back in the day! great video man!

[@MeowcorePodcast]

I enjoyed this video SO MUCH. I've been told the secrets of who plays which part. It was like taking a machine apart to see hw it works.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Glad you enjoyed it! Welcome to the channel my friend !! VG :-)

[@mbopipistrello]

Video about Fletch: Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Fletch Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Fletch Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Wilder Fletch..

[@SharLeeRV]

This video isn’t complete without World in my eyes, iconic Andy performance

[@hellektronic9036]

Fletch's role easily is replaceable by a good manager. That's not Alan's case. He was a musical master and a key artistic piece of Depeche Mode. Just because of his stupid rivalry and jealousness towards mr. Wilder, one of the reasons he left, I think Fletch took off more than he contributed to the band.

[@vox9841]

I have just come across your channel which is really good. Can you do a video on Billy Currie from ULTRAVOX Thanks

[@laloverdad1431]

I'am like fletch,i've being trying to learn how to play piano for more than 30 years., I suck.

[@PHRASERPHRASER]

Andrew Fletcher: the only member who was ALWAYS sober. Even though you dont know or believe it; he was that one who contributed Depeche Mode to not fall in separation NEVER.

[@ColonelRoge]

Well the least out of it would be more applicable. Fletch remained the most English and untainted by fame in my mind, he still loved a pint and never moved abroad.

[@robertisham5279]

​@@ColonelRogeSame could be said about Alan he didn't leave England and stayed sober during the faith and devotional tour.

[@stevengn7245]

Vaughn can fill in for Fletch live this year on the Momento Mori tour

[@VaughnGeorge]

They have my number but they have not called me yet!! VG :-) "-)

[@lolam.9291]

If Fletch had left the band as opposed to Alan, no one would have noticed.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Very true Lola!! V:-)

[@user-rw2dr5my1s]

He could’ve played the triangle and still be my favorite.

[@dan01]

Obviously, D.M. is geared towards production & creativity-based, not live performance.

[@kingtrance307]

That must be the reason they keep selling out arenas and stadiums!!

[@jamesdaniels3699]

What I would like see you do a video of Will Gregory and Alison goldfrapp. I have been a fan Goldfrapp of them for years now.until recently I thought they married, husband and wife duo.thank you I'm also a big fan of royksopp.i have a Roland JD-xi

[@Synthcronized]

To be the cheerleader.

[@simoharjane7823]

Andrew Fletcher: "We were never in contact with him anyway when he was in the band. It's almost like he never existed." Martin Gore: "I don't think we should ever get into a slanging match with Alan, because he was an integral part of the band who had a lot of input and a lot to say in what the band was doing. I think Alan was very set in his ways. I'm sure if we ever suggested something to Alan, and he didn't particularly like what we were suggesting, he would make sure it didn't work." - Martin Gore, Andrew Fletcher - Guitar World - May 1997

[@cryoshock8137]

so he plays the low parts (like the bassist), while martin plays the high parts.

[@joshualifetree5398]

Even if you try hard to make Fletcher look good he is still useless. All he plays is what Wilder showed him how to play! What is Fletcher's input into DM???

[@encamode2947]

"I suppose Wilder could do a lot of that by himself, but they had to split the parts so that everyone had something to do." This at 17:50 is the best summed up answer to the question of what Fletch does. After decades of following DM as my favorite band and hearing the Fletch jokes, I was hoping this would reveal some hard working behind the scenes sort of thing that he does that makes him vital. Unfortunately it only seems to strengthen the notion that he doesn't do much at all. I still love the band, but I'm not going to pretend that Fletch is still around because of stellar musical talent. Wilder could have played his part, Fletch's part, and had time for tea all while the song was still going. There has to be something else there that he does, or maybe it's just as was said....he is Martin's mouthpiece, and maybe that is the better value he brings.

[@bangmateo7481]

Unfortunately it only seems to strengthen the notion that he doesn't do much at all. lol classic lol

[@nevermind2509]

Yeah, instead of a musician, he could have been the official manager of the band. After all, he is the mediator, the reconciliator, Martin's mouthpiece and friend.

[@billsilva1740]

I saw a video and it was either OMD or Pet Shop member said that Fletch played the adding machine (calculator).

[@ernestoromo3344]

THERE"RE MORE LIKE A FAMILY... .BANANAS!!!

[@Lawtasaj]

One day we will know the truth...but not for a while yet..just the same for the question re which track's bassline Flood and Alan took for ETS 😀

[@thedelacruz]

Nice. Thanks for the explanation. Can you do a similar video about New Order? I always wonder what Gillian did lol. I know she played some guitar and keyboard but later on she seems to be there for show.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Jose Delacruz I will speak about new Order in a video soon!! V😎👍

[@girlienerd]

Gillian helped New Order develop their "layered" keyboard sound. She actually contributes greatly to the band, but left for a while to focus on raising her children

[@k.avilla8061]

Depeche Mode - Just What Exactly Does Fletch Do ? Well, if he didn't do much before, he's certainly not doing an awful lot now

[@DODGETHISLUCAS8BIT]

It’s so cool to learn what Fletch actually does! I knew he could play and stylistically its those individual parts that make up the Depeche Mode Sound! I really enjoyed this video and am geeking out to those depeche mode sounds!

[@VaughnGeorge]

DODGE THIS LUCAS MACKINTOSH thank you my friend !! Many other DM videos are to be seen on my channel so do enjoy yourself !! VG😎👍🎹

[@DODGETHISLUCAS8BIT]

@@VaughnGeorge Thank you I will!

[@VaughnGeorge]

DODGE THIS LUCAS MACKINTOSH you’re welcome , I hope you will consider subscribing and join the tribe 😎👍🎹VG

[@DODGETHISLUCAS8BIT]

Vaughn George consider it done!

[@smashdoubleu253]

Stripped is my all-time favorite from DM. Those bass parts are so intense and deep. Thank you Fletch for this :) Every Single Member of Depeche Mode has his unsubstituatable role i think. Maybe Fletch didn't get the same recognition for his work on and behind the stage from Alan as same as he claims for himself. We all know about Alans Role and his musically Input which pushs them to the top. But every Band has there peak of success. But after Alans departure, they created some very meaningful Albums which we all love. Thats it what D≡P≡CH≡ MOD≡ is about. Every band has his flatten curve in all the years but DM's still is on a high level :)

[@ash23neuro]

"The rhythm of ‘Stripped’ was made up of an idling motorbike played half - an - octave down from its original pitch.”

[@compfox]

You are right! I once sampled the sound of my old Beetle, and is sounded exactly like that.

[@besina69]

It's an Emulator 1 factory patch

[@allexisberry7367]

Someone had to hold it all together and it almost drove him crazy. Rip Andy Fletcher, quite possibly, the glue .

[@RTK171]

Andy is the manager always has been the organiser! Vince was the music genius Martin is a lyrical genius and Allen was a true genius live pianist he's a legend. Im a DPM fan up until Ultra and after Allen left and live drums became the norm I slowly lost interest in DPM its to dark now