Depeche Mode on new album 'Memento Mori', the loss of Andy Fletcher, and upcoming tour

NME sat down with Depeche Mode frontman Dave Gahan at the Berlin launch of their hotly-anticipated new album 'Memento Mori', discussing how he came back from the bring of wanting to quit, finding joy in the studio with bandmate Martin Gore, dealing with the sad death of Andy Fletcher, and what to expect from the upcoming tour and years ahead.
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[@johanmard5043]

A big thank you to the interviewer who obeyed the golden rule of mainly keeping silent, allowing Dave to talk at length and so openly.

[@manuellopez9744]

And the interviewer was respectful about Fletch in such a way that he didn't asked unnecessary questions.

[@adambarratt1820]

Unlike that awkward gumby that hosted their Berlin press conference. It was like they just plucked some random grandmother off of the street who'd never heard of DM to host it. This dude would have been much better.

[@Ikasaswarrior]

Yes 👍

[@Pauldjreadman]

Exactly

[@nickterrett6613]

so when did Dave Gahan decide to base his image on Roy Orbison..WTF😳

[@lenBrill1971]

I'm 51. I feel worn down by these modern times. But when I listen to Depeche Mode I'm pulled back in time and I feel good. That they will tour again is exciting. I grew up with DM. 🇨🇦👍

[@juliehealingleaf6211]

Power of music and frequency and tone

[@theenglishman3368]

Thats how they want you to feel

[@GenXer333]

Same here and same age as you. Their music has always touched me to the core, because not only is it great music, but there's always a message in their lyrics that most people can identify with. I was fortunate enough to see them at the Rose Bowl in '88 for Music for the Masses, and it was by far the most incredible and unforgettable concert of theirs of all time. The energy coming from the band, and the energy we sent back to them, is indescribable. RIP Fletch. xo

[@juliehealingleaf6211]

@@GenXer333 I was there too!!

[@fortheloveofnoise]

Im 27 and worn down with these times....at least you got to live in the golden era.

[@j.m.221]

I love how honest, personable , self reflective and self aware Dave is as he's gotten older. I couldn't help to shed a tear hearing him talk about Fletch.

[@jedwards1975]

Same.

[@honeyflo88]

Yeah now I going to wash the tear and get on to appreciation this day and give thanks, be it good or not that good, for today as Dave suggests. I mean what more can you do

[@yevgeniyaleshchenko849]

@@honeyflo88 War and genocide in Ukraine with thousands of death has not made you think about that? Well, good to know. Also, you woulnd't be able to ''give thanks'' if you were chronically ill, even the ability to have something to thank for is a privilege.

[@erikalangbein4586]

@@yevgeniyaleshchenko849i am chronically ill with very severe issues, i have many things to thank for. I find it strange that so many people say stuff like that without realiing its victimizing us even more and of course its not easy but its also not always the worst thing ever

[@Zsklar]

FANTASTIC INTERVIEW!!!! Way better than the big announcement event. That was horrible. Dave has really come full circle in every aspect of his life, personally and career wise. I love how honest and open he was in this interview. In a way, I think Fletch's death will make the band even stronger. If Dave had his way, he would have quit Depeche Mode 10 years ago, but he always come back to it as I think deep down it's good for his soul. Not sure if they will continue on after this record, but I have thought that after their past 5 albums, and yet here they are. Fletch was the glue that kept the band together and got them motivated to get back into the studio. That was his role with the band. It was good to hear that the process of making this album for Dave and Martin was positive and didn't feel too daunting. Perhaps that will open up the possibilities of more records from them in the future. Regardless, all good stuff. Thanks Dave and Martin! We are glad you are back!

[@eliastheod]

Totally agree… that announcement event was really horrible!!

[@sabrinaroa8404]

Me encanto lo que escribiste

[@matvei15]

Excellent summary.

[@michaelgreene4816]

What big announcement event?

[@RockCity1111]

This will be the last production album for Depeche mode. Most likely!! Dave has always had so much passion when singing these songs. I don't care much for his other band but Depeche mode has some of the best electronic type music

[@glezpik]

This feels more like a therapy session for Dave than an interview. Deep feelings there.

[@brody5211]

Yep like ultra interviews ….

[@justmoritz]

Like someone else pointed out, interviewer just let him talk. And he did

[@NikkiaSthlm]

Agreed! Then again, good interviews should be imo :D

[@ruiz212]

Thank you Dave these are the things we have wanted to hear as DM fans. Fletch forever in our hearts.

[@nefgon]

That’s exactly how I felt after watching this interview!

[@perandersson8001]

I'm so greatful they're still doing their thing. DM is truly a gift to the world.

[@Ikasaswarrior]

Indeed a 💎

[@Pauldjreadman]

A lot of electro acts are duos for some reason.

[@eliastheod]

@@Pauldjreadman very true yazoo, soft cell, erasure

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Indeed ❤

[@Pauldjreadman]

@@eaterofspiders Funny some strange reason a lot of electro acts past and present are duos. It still works.

[@isabel.bolivia]

Hearing Dave talk, feels like hearing a close friend. Depeche mode is giving me reasons to fight, I need to go see them live one more time

[@TRANKmusic]

Charming, funny, sharp, honest and touching, as ever. His description of his relationship with Fletch is incredible (And despite the sad circumstances, it feels good to know he's still in touch with Alan - at least enough to connect when big news hits).

[@Алексей-ш4в8л]

Как же хочется что бы они финальную работу над альбомом закончили с Аланом; свели всё 3 - ём, это было бы дань уважения Увайдлера к Энди Флетчеру

[@Peem_pom]

Dave is always so brutally honest and endearing

[@Ikasaswarrior]

So true he say’s it as it is.

[@JayeMallard619]

Yeah, I remember Alan saying this about Dave too in an interview not too long after he left the band, that "One of Dave's most endearing qualities is that he is very very honest."

[@NeilNZ]

He always was that way, he's never changed. He's too honest at times, but that's only a good thing. As long as they keep the journey going 📢👍📢

[@studiokohlindia]

@@JayeMallard619 truly, he doesn't hide anything

[@gaae2000]

So Fletcher didn’t do much musically?

[@valsummerfield3069]

This interview was 100% better than yesterday's announcement interviewer. You can also see how much more relaxed Dave is and comfortable. I love his candidness and his humility showing us he's just a man getting through life like anyone else. Of course to me, he's a LEGEND!!

[@maboleth]

That announcement granny was arrogant if not plain uninterested. This is so much better.

[@valsummerfield3069]

@@maboleth Indeed

[@vickinew6245]

Great interview, Dave being true to himself and us all. A much better in site into the making of the new Album and also great emotional words and memories spoken of a great late fellow band member.. Fletch. Such a lot of information given in such a short interview. Just what us Depeche fans want ❤️

[@Wayneraltman]

There is nothing that could keep me from this tour my love for this group has never waned in 40 years. Martin Gore is the greatest songwriter to have ever lived, and Dave is by far the greatest frontman. They deserve far more respect than they have ever gotten. I will be bringing my daughters and wife to this tour this band is part of our family.

[@MVRemastered]

"I will forever wish that I was a bit kinder to Fletch"

[@GeorgeDemin]

That was bittersweet to the point of tears

[@Peem_pom]

That made me break out into tears

[@ritasch1007]

We all get sometimes to a point , where we find out: Now its to late.And it makes us really sad. :0/ Dd

[@thirdlantern]

For me, "Ghosts Again" is the most poignant and moving Depeche Mode track in years. What an amazing return to form.

[@adamkay8838]

Great interview. He let Dave talk and asked good questions. Thank you!

[@TheSomethingWheel]

Dave Gahan's incredibly long answers are BACK baby

[@jamesrigby789]

Now that was a much better interview than that press conference, looking forward to Memento Mori

[@horprodukt]

totally!

[@WriterusAeternus]

RIP Fletch. Still can’t believe he is gone. It would be great if Alan joined them on this tour. My first DM concert was Black Celebration tour. And my last was the Spirit tour. They were constantly in the background of my life. Good to see them still going.

[@henne2k]

Wouldn't count on it, but Fletch was one of the Reasons for Andy to split up...

[@grimlund]

​@Father Paolo, O.Pa. Do they need another guy on their tours? I dont think so. Andy didnt contribute much musicaly in the band and they allready have Gordeno as a touring member.

[@jamesmazurstudios]

I'm a 48 year old man living an adult life with adult problems. Listening to Depeche Mode brings me back to being 14 years old, working in the kitchen at McDonalds and spending the summer with my buddies getting into trouble. Timeless music.

[@franciskurt4708]

I hear they're hiring...

[@darkmaninperth]

@@franciskurt4708 off you trott then.

[@patrycjazak3879]

What a great interview! The guy interviewing Dave needs a raise or a promotion! Very well done! Thank you!

[@rolanbc]

what a talkative guy Dave is. I wish dM all the lucks for the good of all of us

[@GremlinSpike69]

That is so awesome that a Synthpop/semi-Goth band from Basildon forced the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to let them in!

[@dana.1546]

My thoughts exactly. :)

[@carlosalenduran4630]

Omg Dave Gahan is so sweet he really missed Andy Fletch Fletcher

[@leonstraatman1857]

i'm a fan for over 35 years,the DEVOTIONAL tour will never be topped for sure,but i feel blessed with the fact that they're still around.they're a part of my life actually through their music. As a matter of fact i consider them the best band ever in the music scene.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

The Devotional tour was PHENOMENAL!!! My brother and I attended two shows in 1993 and ‘94. I will never, ever get over how gorgeous and stunning those shows were. So hauntingly beautiful and unique. Of all the DM tours I’ve been too, Devotional will always have a special place in my heart. Cannot wait to see them again. I love them so much ❤❤😊😊

[@abeach5420]

NME . . . reallllly good to 'not' hear an interviewer cut off 'our' Dave. Outstanding to just watch and listen to Dave chat on {poor guy jetlag was real} . . . thank you again to interviewer. All so many interviewers constantly interject & have a mandate.

[@uneedtherapy42]

Incredible they are continuing. Depeche Mode honestly owes the world nothing. Their career and success is beyond measure. They could have walked away and no one would have said a word. Their catalog of songs is up there with the greatest bands of all time. Show me an band that has evolved over time like they have? You would be hard pressed to find one. I have been a fan of this band since about 1987 and I still love them. Dave is so amazing here and so real... he seems like a guy that would be backstage before a gig and be like "I don't want to go on I don't want to do this anymore" and then a second later go on stage and absolutely destroy the place!! He is so great. DM FOREVER!!!!!

[@cdjoy7299]

Great interview! Dave so relaxed, chatty and sweet. The key to a great Dave interview is to shut up and let him talk. Love him!

[@AB-mx9lx]

Min 7:40....I am very happy he texts with Alan....and they keep in touch somehow...

[@paulb3517]

Didn't quite sit well with me the 'then there was two' quote from Alan...

[@johncannon3411]

@@paulb3517 gallows humour nothing more

[@ilsebrauckhoff7689]

Fletch is still with Dave and Martin. They (and we) just can't see him. We just have to listen closely.

[@nukhetyavuz]

tears again,...Dave,you put your words so beautifully...thanks for the questions👍♥️

[@yolandijoubert6250]

Grew up with Depeche Mode, absolutely golden memories. Greatest band on this Planet. Just so crazy about them ❤❤❤

[@barbaravs1814]

Always love how heart on sleeve Dave can be, it's very comforting to hear him talk about Fletch.

[@scottclark1455]

I don't even have words for how much I love these guys. Like other fans, they are part of the soundtrack of my life and it's as impossible to explain what that means as it is to explain the emotional impact their music has had on me. They opened a door into a world that I didn't know existed. All I can say is thank you and I love you all!

[@PanAmerican747]

This is such a great interview with Dave. One of the best and most informative I've seen. Can't wait for the Memento Mori tour and the new album.

[@Purple256]

Excellent interview! It was good to finally hear from Dave himself about his reaction to Fletch's death and what he meant to him. I'm incredibly glad, though, that he and Martin have decided to go forward with new music. 2023 can't come fast enough!

[@teleavision8819]

Hopefully it won't be another bullshit propaganda album. They went from the policy of truth to the wrong side of the truth.

[@chetkayeable]

DM were in the NME before the interviewer's mum was born. Legendary band.

[@labeep2517]

I don't think you ever going to read this comment, but still: Dave, I am happy you are still with us making music. You are a source of happiness. Don't ever change, just keep evolving. Much light to you.

[@mlette408]

Loved hearing Dave speak. What a true gem. ♡

[@GeorgeDemin]

I’m so happy for all the fans for the fact that they’re back despite all the terrible recent events in and outside DM. I wish this everywhere in the last 24 hours, please all those out there in the free world - enjoy the album and the shows to the fullest, for yourselves and for all of us, who are not able to do that because of our idiotic government.

[@serheysimakov1621]

Let's not despair. We must hope for the best.

[@GeorgeDemin]

@@serheysimakov1621 it’s damn hard, but I try. Thank you

[@jdestiny10153]

@@GeorgeDemin Courage, the large DM family is with you 🤗

[@Hayyyward]

Looks like a much smaller tour and only a handful of U.S. dates so probably going to be lots of upset fans around.

[@megah5028]

@@Hayyyward Hoping they add a few more dates at the end, at least for NY. We so love them here 🖤

[@TippiGordon]

I absolutely understand and respect Dave's ambivalence about moving forward album to album, tour to tour, and I especially empathize with his desire to spend more time with his family. If anyone has earned the right to be mindful of his space and his wellbeing, it's Dave Gahan. That being said, Memento Mori is the best DM album since at least Ultra, and I hope there's more of that in store.

[@hairycousin4252]

That was uplifting. Everything just flowed so naturally. Dave looking and sounding magnificent. Let's hope the album is too. Peace.

[@jacksutherland1]

I cried watching this. And also with a joyous heart. Dave is very open and cadid als always. I do dread a world without DM. But we have a whole new album and a world tour just on the horizon. I'm very, very grateful for that. But my DM-heart also hope for more beyond that.

[@michaelgreene4816]

Why cry? ?

[@Riviere8281]

I loved the interview!So honest as always and very emotional. I can't wait to listen the new album

[@michaelwilson2340]

Great interview style. Just ask the basic question and let us learn from Dave's response without interrupting. Very professional.

[@swamisalami3000]

Dave looks better without that moustache

[@jeffoliver7491]

I met Fletch many times, he was a really nice guy. RIP Fletch.

[@franciscave4364]

Please to hear from the interview that he is still in communication with former member Alan Wilder.

[@cash4chaos]

Most down to earth rock star.

[@joethelion6016]

Well the album name is wonderfully sinister and rather intriguing so that's a great start 👍

[@markleaning107]

Such an honest interview. I'm really glad there back. Be kinder to people

[@ravager06]

totally agree. great interview!!

[@yvonne5478]

Great interview!!! We Love You Dave+❤Fletch😇 +Martin!

[@gilesmiles8458]

This is a superb interview. Dave seems much more relaxed and open here than in the press conference in Berlin, which for me, just felt flat. Lovely words about Fletch too that left me wiping the odd tear away. Carpe diem people, carpe diem... 🖤

[@MichelleAntonia]

This band is as old as I am, and were the first music I ever listened to. When I visited my cousin in Poland in 1991, I was just a kid, but she was obsessed and she introduced me to them and their music. It was a complete revelation to me, it really took me out of being a kid, I was never the same since. I feel now after three decades, they're so deeply ingrained by memories and past, and so important to me. So great to see Dave and Martin doing so well and still making great music.

[@bookwormgirl8178]

They brought up Politics FIRST! I support the right to FREE SPEECH FOR EVERYONE!

[@joethelion6016]

The same man I used to drool over watching him on TOTP in the 80's. Wonderful

[@Djtonystewart]

The band of my life and will forever be Devote! DM4ever

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

Man I just love Dave. Very happy to hear they’ll probably add more dates/cities to the tour.

[@glennoc8585]

certainly don't need to record or perform for money these days so it's really for the love of making music and for the fans.

[@al_7387]

I grew up with DM & they've always been there & it's wonderful that, despite everything they've been through, even losing a beloved band member, they're still here & back with a new album. Fletch would be proud of you guys for carrying on - welcome back! 😊❤️

[@pyjama9556]

Masterful interviewer with a rare restraint to let the story unfold from his guest!! Dave, not been a DM fan my whole life but very glad I discovered the bands music eventually. The bands work is one of a kind, I salute you, Martin, Fletch and Alan (up there!) Thank you guys❤

[@joy1ess]

very personal and intimate interview. love Depeche mode 😌

[@marialemos1495]

True legends! They are of the few 80's bands that are still around making music like my boys Duran Duran.

[@BvirtuallY]

Dave looks ten years younger now than ten years ago! Thank you. Abdolutely honest, calm, wonderful video!! ❤️

[@oliviatran4355]

Love Depeche Mode! Been a fan for over 40 yrs + Going to their concert in 2023 Tour …cannot wait❤ You still look sexy DAVE! ❤

[@rubaidaallen2764]

I love this band so much! For 37 years they have been the soundtrack playing in the background, getting me through life and making me smile always. So happy they are carrying on. Andy Fletcher’s death was a huge shock that will be felt for a long time to come but, I know this is what he would’ve wanted. Cannot wait to hear the new album and see DM live again in a few months. Also a big thank you to the interviewer for being respectful and allowing Dave Gahan to speak ❤

[@debramartinez2765]

Now touring next year is awesome, remembering Andy Fletcher 🙏🕊

[@jenward5727]

Fantastic interview... thank you❤️

[@DjJasminOfficial]

Masterminds . Always & Forever DM 🌹

[@maxdamiann]

Saw them 40 years ago in Toronto, still have the ticket. And I still have the same enthusiasm for them. It will be a very sad day when they're no longer around...

[@mila7809]

They will always be around ❤

[@lisachapman4286]

Dave @ its soooooo good to hear you again! We will all miss our fletch! Always xxx you and Martin will always be in our hearts 💕 and souls! Following you now and forever! Can't wait to see you all at Twickenham next year! Stay strong! Live on! Believe! For eternity! Love you loads 💗 xxx Lisa Chapman RGN NHS xxxx

[@lisachapman4286]

Stay close Depeche family!!! Xxx reach out and touch FAITH!!! XXX FINALLY I'VE FOUND THAT I BELONG HERE!!!! XXX

[@lachilenitapower9095]

Bravo 💪 y gracias x volver después de la perdida de Andy .Grandes Depeche Mode para rato.

[@jazzualdo]

Now this is what you call a real interview.

[@adridorland8112]

We missen Andy Fletcher en hij is onvervangbaar ben blij dat Dave Gahan zo positief over hem praat ❤we love Andy Fletcher ben blij dat DM weer een album heeft gemaakt en Andy Fletcher kijkt mee van boven af

[@mcginleypn7388]

What great honest down to earth bloke dave is. Can't wait to hear new album & lookin forward to Twickenham concert.

[@sandyavalos2206]

How can someone not love him? I doooooo so much, enjoy the concerts I will not be able to see :'(

[@ninawildr4207]

Wonderful interview so touching...💕

[@eppityrrell8236]

Love this guy so humble kind and funny can't wait for your 2023

[@olliemal2509]

Dave and Martin and Andy are Depeche Mode Full of Timeless Artists 🎨 👌 Thanks Dave and Martin for Been yourselfs ULTRA and Alan Wilder 😀 and Karl Rick from Underworld , Barrel of Gun Soft Mix

[@mattidohmeier5260]

Alan Wilder too, please..

[@jeshkam]

Oh yeah, good mix.

[@iantrembirth6918]

It seems that, every time they are "back", they are a little more honest and open about the relationships within the band. It's no secret that they aren't a bunch of "mates" anymore but the respect they have for each other has never been questioned. Dave has always locked himself away before shows to get himself prepared I wonder how Martin will be affected without Fletch being there before they go on stage. We know he didn't do a lot on stage, but I think his presence on the tour between shows will be sadly missed.

[@ilsebrauckhoff7689]

Fletch did a lot on stage. He did all his Fletch things. I'll miss that. But he will be there, I'm sure.

[@iantrembirth6918]

@@ilsebrauckhoff7689 I loved how Dave put that! As he said, he may have not done a lot musically but he was there and it was important he was there!

[@MayaMollis]

Martin is introwert person and Fletch was more extravert and help Mart with communication and you know with that with introvert have problems- intervievs, marketing and etc

[@nukhetyavuz]

he would have loved the album♥️😰🍀👍💪

[@ConjuredScourge]

So excited for new stuff! I'll follow Depeche Mode to the end of time. Ive been around since a child and now as an adult there's no better sounds than a Depeche mode setlist.

[@nigelcarren]

TRUE talent doesn't need an ego. 🏆🎶🇬🇧

[@gerrigalahad7224]

Oh my gosh..such a wonderful interview..with so much love and fun..even with the background of all the sad news about Fletch..so honest..and somehow life affirming..!!! Not that the interviewer didn't ask or say much..simply because dave was talking nonstop..but he gave him the room for it as well! Well..this man had always something to tell the world over the years..and prey to god he'll not end up doing so..with his songs..his voice and his charisma! By the way..i've never heard him saying the f... word that often..did you!!?!

[@crazymairnonaya8379]

😂

[@michelehernandez4217]

I just love Dave!..the whole Band, the 🎶 Nice, warm, talented, lots of ego free, fun, cheeky interactions, their all wonderful..Their music I really grew up with. God Bless them with long healthy productive lives🙏

[@stevenronaldmorris4994]

Gosh- so personable and down to earth. Thanks NME

[@davidgomez4931]

Looking forward to listen the new album Memento Mori. DM always making quality music, they rule. They are the best.

[@AmazingChinaToday]

Wow, Depeche Mode is now only TWO.

[@danielthommen8243]

DM, Depeche Mode, now Dave and Martin... They were with me from day one I kind of started to listen to music, the hit-show on radio, until now. Their story, their life, their music, the ups and downs... Incredible songs, incredible voices, unbelievable wonderful stories... They saved me more than once and they were with me for my whole life and I am so happy to see them again!!!... Dave and Martin, thank you for finding more inspiration and courage to keep on going... Can't wait... Please come to SW Florida during another USA leg of Memento Mori...

[@nigelgoodwin5094]

Dave is an amazing guy and frontman. SO honest! Love to hear him. Looking forward to DMMM!

[@BiserAngelov1]

In those hard times for the world, I honestly hope, that Memento Mori will be a notably dark album. I really need it to be dark!

[@henrik5284]

Thank you interviewer, for good listening and for not interrupting. So many other interviewers put themselves in the spotlight nowadays. Great interview 🙂

[@graemebell8391]

Great honestly a good interview,looking forward to next year,been to a concert from each album tour since Black Celebration, longtime ago,

[@lichtgedicht3882]

Absolutley honest Interview. Wonderful

[@smashdoubleu253]

What a beautiful and honest Interview. Its so warm and i'm so exited about the Album and the Tour.

[@gaiabandini8145]

Dave you are such a gentle soul ❤

[@NKDV76]

Oh my God stumbled across this accidentally I live in damn boring hot ass Arizona but I will drive anywhere within reason to come see them playing 2023 without fail and even if it means quitting my damn boring job!

[@theicey5068]

Dave is honest is sincere enough to be open about the relationship they had with Fletch. God bless Depeche Mode

[@traingirl1843]

Dave is still absolutely gorgeous. It's hard to believe how long Depeche Mode have been around