Depeche Mode in the 90s: From Violator On | POP FIX | Professor of Rock

[@mikeelko8527]

Let’s be real. Violator is like a greatest hits album for most bands

[@TheVinylGuru]

Mike Elko biiiig time.

[@zibbybone]

Violator is full of hits, but nearly every song on The Cars' first (eponymous) album got tons of airplay.

[@rodrodriguez3334]

Absolutely!

[@Lunatic4Bizcas]

@@zibbybone : Yes, but The Cars' first album was released in 1978.

[@TheChristafershawn]

I thought "Some Great Reward" and "Black Celebration" and even "Music For The Masses" were all better albums but Violator was also very good. But that said Policy Of Truth is one of my favs. Truth is everything from "A Broken Frame" to "Violator" are solid albums from start to end.

[@geminate]

I fell in love with a song that I heard on the radio; later finding out it was DM’s Everything Counts. The first CD I bought was One Caress. DM will always be my favorite band.

[@anyopp1]

Your commentary on going to concerts and enjoying the moment and the merchandise table/tent is exactly how I feel. You said it perfectly... When you go to shows today, everyone around you is more worried about filming on their phone instead of taking in the music and experience.

[@ninawildr4207]

What kind of memories will they have when they're old...I wonder🤔

[@TweedSuit]

I saw them in Sydney, 1990. Awesome.

[@the.real.dj.android4404]

Wow u saw Depeche Mode during there devotional tour! That’s my favorite DM tour! 😎👍👍

[@fhwolthuis]

The policy of truth is magic indeed 💜

[@wildsmiley]

My 5: 5. Policy Of Truth 4. It’s No Good 3. Only When I Lose Myself 2. Walking In My Shoes 1. Enjoy The Silence

[@molengat1]

MFTM = best DM album and concert combo. Rose Bowl gig was the best show I've ever been to and the album was so cool and mysterious (at the time). Devotional concert was a close second. Black Celebration has to be the best album sonically and lyrically. But I just love how DM - an eighties band, was able to kick ass in the 90's. So many bands choked under the ravages of grunge but DM maintained their relevancy.

[@joebondo2422]

Music for me has always been Depeche Mode and then everybody else. I agree Professor that Songs of Faith & Devotion wasn’t the mega hit album that they’re previous 3 were but I would still say it was a great album and it complemented their previous 3 hit albums nicely. Ultra was pretty damn good too. I could listen to you talk about Depeche Mode all day. I don’t care if you made those videos 30 minutes, I’m there til the end! I just can’t get enough! 1. Enjoy the silence 2. Policy of truth 3. It’s no good 4. Walking in my shoes 5. Rush

[@mattm00ey]

I regularly work all day to dm

[@retrovideogamejunkie]

Actually.....my first real transition from cassette to CD was DM violator.... It was more clean sound, but also that infamous "echo" on "cheap transfers"...

[@raserx63]

I love every DM song but this chorus ..omg “I’m hanging on your words.. Living on your breath.. Feeling with your skin.. Will I always be here ?”

[@libbyhardel1826]

They lyrics to that song have always haunted me! The imagery is amazing.

[@Electric-vo9zv]

In Your Room! My favorite DM song!

[@FredQuijada]

Excellent lyrics from one of their best songs, ever. Always hit me like a sledgehammer. Good call.

[@evam5589]

I was in a bad relationship one time in late 90's but still listen to all the album's but that song really made sense to me. Amazing.

[@stopbunsen]

It's just absolute perfection that song. The way it builds is memorising.

[@mrhoffame]

DM stayed strong into the 90s, because they were one of the only synth bands from 80s that actually had a "deepness" to synth music. Most bands in the 80s played off the great/fun playful nature of the 80s (Which was Awesomw!!!! lol), but DM actual put deep, dark, sensual lyrics and presentation to the synth sound and that just doesn't fade. Hence Violator and Ultra were as powerful as anything else at the time.

[@stopbunsen]

@Lukeyep, Rush is the best example of them leaning in the NIN direction.

[@monstermom4358]

agree but dont forget the epic vincent clarke whos touring with erasure

[@depeszTOja]

DM stayed relevant in 90s thanks to all Alan's synth experiments in 80s. They grew over the popines and kitch of synth pop. Its like muscle memory. Ultra is so good only because they were following all Alan's teachings. We all saw what happened on SOTU. Can you imagine how great it would be with influence of Recoil?

[@joshuawilliams7351]

"deepness" as opposed to depth?

[@charliesiswick224]

Not the band of the 90’s. THE band. Prof, you get it, not sure many others do. 40 years nearly and still going..... strong. Crazily, still underrated !

[@jeremyjungman1290]

Martin Gores writing with Alan Wilder's classically trained musical talents made DM great! I miss the Alan Wilder years. I always thought that extra special something was missing after Alan left.

[@hedevilbyday488]

I'm a simple man, I see a pic of dm in a profesor of rock vídeo and I clicked immediately.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you for watching!

[@vincentkrisiak6337]

Same

[@cobras034]

Yet again it just shows how timeless DM is.... forever will be my favorite band of ALL time

[@officialWWM]

Cobra they were the worst band of the 8os :/

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@officialWWM Nooooooooooo!

[@officialWWM]

Professor of Rock I love most of your choices but I really didn't get this band :/ they certainly weren't "rock" :/

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@officialWWM I understand. Music is subjective. We like what we like. Thanks for commenting...

[@johnj28]

@@officialWWM People either love them or hate them, but Listen openly to Martin's lyrics on songs like Here is the House, or Lie to Me! If it doesn't hit you, then I am sorry. This band is a HUGE part of my life!

[@ninawildr4207]

I disagree Sofad IS A MASTERPIECE as well!

[@ProfessorofRock]

IMHO Not on par with Violator, Music for the Masses and Black Celebration.

[@ninawildr4207]

@@ProfessorofRock love your channel!

[@kittensmakingcandles]

TOTALLY agree with you nina wildr! Genres, Bands, Albums, Songs, and more, can each have their own distinctive persona of greatness, like different flowers in a garden. Any music may fail to find favor with a specific listener, but for some of us Sofad resonates powerfully as a masterpiece in that lovely garden. I think we're the lucky ones.

[@jakubpetricek]

​@@ProfessorofRock SOFAD and Black Celebration are the band´s best albums. Also, I do not consider But Not Tonight to be a Black Celebration song. It is almost as bad as The Meaning of Love and the band did not include it on the album. The US label did. Cheers from Prague. You know, I read an interview with Hepzibah from Miranda Sex Garden and Alan´s wife (not sure if they are still married). Her band was supporting DM and she had no idea who Alan was. He liked her and then she realised "he was the DM´s drummer" (her own words). Obviously she was no fan but she remembered working in a record store in California one summer. And that all the kids wanted were two albums: Disintegration and 101. I was at high school in a communist country where it was impossible to buy records from the world. We used to go to the changing rooms whenever we skipped a class. "Hey, we have a math test now. OK, let´s go down to changing rooms". There we would meet guys from other classrooms, of the same age, younger, older boys (girls were banned because they couldn´t keep their mouths shut and those changing rooms in cellar was our haven from teachers who were not to know about it) who had one thing in common...they were not exemplary students, they were smart and fun. We talked, smoked and listened to cassettes. And we listened to Disintegration and 101! Depeche Mode had a tremendous impact on our generation and the iron curtain could do fuck all to stop their music from spreading. Kids in Poland did the same. So did kids in Mexico and Argentina. In Germany, in both Germanies. In France or Italy. When the communism fell I worked the next summer in a hostel. And met these two guys from Glasgow. One sporting a DM t-shirt, the other had a Nitzer Ebb t-shirt. I immediatelly started talking music with them and they were shocked about how big DM were in Czechoslovakia. They told me they were the only 2 guys who listened to electronic music in their own school for 500! Depeche were overlooked in their own country. Ridiculed. So, they found their audience abroad. Maybe they were lucky not to be huge in Britain. The UK press is terrible. The love you for a while and then they loathe you. And if you´re big in the UK only and fall out of favor you have no other markets to go. And you are fucked. I imagine how happy the English music press must have been informing about Depeche Mode´s success in America. DM had been big in continental Europe but the USA was something else. OK, ONCE AGAIN cheers from Prague, Jakub

[@flaviusseverus8507]

@@ProfessorofRock it´s better, more spiritual and more vocally infused. It´s tough though, because all are great.

[@msf1967]

I could listen to, "It's No Good", forever. That song gets down into my marrow.

[@PimpRandal]

Word

[@citehman]

I am partial to 80's Depeche Mode with some of the decade's best tunes. My favorites... 5. Blasphemous Rumors 4. Master and Servant 3. People are People 2. Everything Counts 1. Shake the Disease

[@RockEagle.]

"Where's the Revolution" - Depeche Mode Cover. Please comment and share this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6ebkHqFjJihppo

[@mattbelinski7760]

Great, great list!

[@lumiesgotcha]

You forgot "Martyr". i've had that song on repeat for the last 3 days while at work. :- )

[@cindigonzalez7350]

Here is the House and But Not Tonight are good ones too

[@PimpRandal]

He has a different post for 80s - check it out and repost

[@robertbeckerbecker1354]

You're wrong about one thing. They did make four masterpieces in a row. Some Great Reward. Black Celebration. Music for the Masses. Violator.

[@lippyfrybender4622]

Waiting for the night to fall is a brilliant single play that driving at 3am

[@stumm71]

I agree 100% with your comment. It is difficult for me to choose my favorite dm song, but if you ask me quickly, it is the first one that comes to my mind

[@lippyfrybender4622]

@@stumm71 enjoy the silence is the greatest song written but what makes violator so good it was done pre Berlin wall fall recording.you will never Get that bubble effect in music again raw Non influenced intelligent music freedom To express without today's bullshite or Pandering to society social if very dumb Down told what to say society. In the words of the late Edwin Starr (whom I met many a time

[@lippyfrybender4622]

Sorry I didn't finish the sentence war what is it good for absolutely nothing but he said great for writing music.thanks

[@ElonMuckX]

3am driving through the desert between Vegas & LA.

[@greghand2273]

Blue Dress is a masterpiece. So simple, and moving. Martin Gore's voice, with his superior vocal range, is just amazing, using his deeper register to bring a haunting melody above the staccato back-beat synth and lilting, high pitched keyboards. There are dozens of covers and tributes to this song on the Internet, and some actually do it justice. And that interlude at the end...

[@robynsegg]

For me World In My Eyes is number 1. I will NEVER forget listening to that OPENING, in that West Coast Video... That synth POUNDED throughout my chest and into my soul. And yes, you felt like you were being hit with a musical sledgehammer. I've listened to that song thousands of times, & I am still transported back to 1990. And as for Andy Fletcher... our beautiful Fletch... you've GOT to see the World In My Eyes tribute with the band acknowledging that this was his favorite song. #RIP_Fletch.

[@vaadaenmacchi]

Dressed in black is a highly underrated song

[@vincentkrisiak6337]

From the same album, But Not Tonight is a good one as well...hell, who am I kidding? I listen to every song on every album every time I listen.

[@salozmen29]

Ummm its Blue Dress...

[@jakubpetricek]

@@vincentkrisiak6337 But Not Tonight is not on Black Celebration! Yes, it is on the US edition but the band never meant to include it on the album. It sounds out of place on BC. The whole album is very coherent, it is a piece of art. But Not Tonight is as indispensable as for the album as my appendix is for me.

[@johnj28]

I feel your passion for DM! My favorite band since buying Some Great Reward followed by Black Celebration in 85/86 my senior year of high school. Some Great Reward through Ultra gives you the Ultimate in DM! You had B sides like Dangerous, Sea of Sin, and Happiest Girl that didn't even make the Violator Album! 90's 5'er 1) Enjoy the Silence 2) Policy of Truth 3) In Your Room 4) Insight 5) One Caress... So many great songs!

[@jeffkillion3383]

Speaking of B-Sides, My Joy is incredible...probably my 6th favorite DM song from the 90's

[@mikekaraoke]

Well I heard-Enjoy the Silence live a few times at concerts, And 3/4 of the album was recorded in 1989 + then the album and the music video for-Enjoy The Silence came out in 1990-So Enjoy the silence is a 80's + 90's song

[@kellyhughes9064]

Those B sides were so brilliant!!!

[@Scotland_Above]

Depeche Mode: Gods of music. Masters of sound. Voices of angels.

[@lawrencesalmon2934]

Amen

[@stopbunsen]

SOFAD is my favourite album hands down, but Violator is the more complete masterpiece in my opinion. Get right with me lets SOFAD down. Other than that I adore every song. In your room is peak Depeche Mode. Love these videos! I get emotional too thinking about how important this band has been in my life, since I was a kid. They take you to another world. Thank you. Top 5: 5 - Judas 4 - Personal Jesus 3 - Rush 2 - World in my eyes 1 - In your room

[@DK-gz6vw]

GRWM is great song. Love it! I think SOFAD and Violator is very different albums but pretty much on a same level as masterpieces.

[@hernanmartinez5982]

Couldn´t agree more about SOFAD, and specially GRWM, it should had been a B-Side.

[@neilsun2521]

I think they peaked in the late '80s, with Music For The Masses and Violator; personally

[@MsTriangle]

Wait what? Get Right with Me is perfection.

[@ingridarayaruiz2869]

Love DM, until the day I'll die

[@albertmurillo7522]

Right with you

[@zee2333]

Moi aussi :)

[@anyopp1]

For me, In Your Room is the best on Songs of Faith & Devotion. It is so beautiful and haunting at the same time. This song, along with Higher Love played live was just bliss. I remember seeing them on that tour and how the show started... I still get chills when I see the performances on KZbin.

[@Penny2018.]

I totally agree. in your room live 93 song of faith and devotion is amazing.

[@Scorpio_Moonshine]

Just saw them (again) during their last tour. I never get tired of seeing them. Will always love Depeche Mode. 🌹 I get chills listening to you describe your love for them. They completely changed my world, too.

[@kellyhughes9064]

Once I became an adult, I promised myself i wouldn't miss any concert I could get to, including when theyve passed through Toronto twice on the same tour. I even managed to see them twice in California when on vacation.. including the Hollywood bowl, which was a bucket list spot to see in itself .

[@joelashadali]

Honestly Anton has to be considered a huge part of the bands success. From the stills,videos and the live shows stage and production values. Photographer Griffin also made a big contribution to the earlier album covers.

[@noremar12]

Top 10 1. Personal Jesus 2. Enjoy the Silence 3. Walking on my Shoes 4. It's no good 5. Useless 6. The Love Thieves 7. Policy of Truth 8. World in my eyes 9 I Feel You 10. Halo

[@malekiththeeternityking5433]

Never let you down again is my oersonal fav

[@ElonMuckX]

The Love Thieves!

[@maxheedrum100]

Enjoy the silence is number 1 ! Swap with personal jesus asap.

[@FHL-Devils]

@@maxheedrum100 ... no. a) It's a personal opinion / list b) I think you're wrong

[@WickedKingLycoan]

They are a multi-generational band. The 80’s, 90’s, and even into the next century. They are brilliant, and their music is timeless! I can’t think of ANY of their songs which isn’t a work of pure genius.

[@neilsun2521]

I personally don't like any of the last 3 albums. 'Precious' is the only song I liked since Ultra.

[@garylever8603]

Only thing I’d disagree with is that I believe SOFD was a masterpiece also

[@EmpressTouch]

The finally album result ended up far better than the sum of the parts. It actually surprised me that the singles on it got any airplay. But yes, it's a great album alright. Very moving, intense and euphoric throughout.

[@warganization]

ironically, the track he listed as his favorite (Judas) is to me the only weak spot on the record. it's a little confusing though considering he put WIMS over it in the 5'ers

[@brianpattison4603]

Bought violater while overseas blind meaning hadn't heard anything from it. I only knew people are people and maybe strangelove. Masterpiece. Still in my playlist. Side note, I like your album rack behind you

[@wendyc7730]

Brian Pattison Watch it...It keeps changing. Yesterday 5/21 The Wham album was very prominent. Now something is there today.

[@djkenny1202]

90’s DM? At least thats easier than top 5 DM.. 1. Insight 2. Home 3. Waiting For The Night 4. Halo 5. In Your Room Love “Sea of Sin”, too. But “Happiest Girl” sends chills up my spine in the way one experiences often with their music.

[@warganization]

Insight really is an otherworldly tune

[@Electric-vo9zv]

My Joy is my fave b side.

[@davidgalinat4257]

Great album closer!

[@djkenny1202]

Electric 7718 its really good out of tge later ones, also Ghost

[@cloud-head5565]

I loved this video, but I disagree on one point, in my opinion, Depeche mode did produce four masterpieces in a row, Black celebration, Music for the masses, violator, and Songs of faith and devotion, this band was untouchable during this period, this was DM'S golden era. Some great reward was the bands first great album, not quite a masterpiece, but pretty close. Black celebration and music for the masses were just fantastic, dark, heavy use of minor keys, a constant troupe in Mode's music, I feel these albums had a more gothic quality, and the stand out tracks are just unbelievable, stripped, a question of love, never let me down again, being my favourites. Violator was even more mature, and more brooding, more lush, the perfect embodiment of electronic music, and is rightly considered a masterpiece. With Songs of faith and devotion, they still had great songs with gorgeous synth melodies, but they added something new, a more raw sound, peppered with 90's techno grooves, and adrenaline pumping rock guitars, This was, and still is, a very exciting Depeche mode album, an underrated masterpiece, so good, Gary (nine inch) Numan has been trying to replicate, and top this album ever since, it might be my favourite Depeche mode album, but then I listen to Violator again....I just can't decide! My 90's DM top 5 5. It's no good 4. Higher love 3. Judas 2. world in my eyes 1. Enjoy the silence

[@MelaninMonarchy]

I had to pause the video for a second, Adam, your life and my life are like two dimensions. Our DM experiences are so similar. BTW, My first DM concert was SOFAD. I would have gone sooner, but being a Black Girl in Detroit, I didn't have any friends who would go with me, and my brother was away at College.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Loved your comment! Thank you for watching!

[@MelaninMonarchy]

@@ProfessorofRock Hope to see you at the RRHF Inductee Ceremony as well as the L.A. DM Convention

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

You are so lucky to have seen them on the Devotional Tour. I wore out my DVD watching it so much. I think it’s them at their height, as far as live performances go. And the projected visuals and stage design by Anton Corbijn is still dope af.

[@vincentkrisiak6337]

SoFaD was my first show as well. Saw them in San Jose. Greatest night of my life to that point.

[@Zhorellski]

SOFAD was one of a kind! Mixture of Blues, Gospel and Synth Rock! No other Record (way underrated) sounds like it!

[@ninawildr4207]

Yes!

[@edhirt6946]

I love Depeche Mode ... hard to cut down for a top 5. I guess my top 5 are Precious, Never Let me Down again, Blasphemous Rumours, Everything Counts, and either Enjoy the Silence or Just Can’t Get Enough. Wow, they are great though ...

[@smrteypntz]

If you haven’t already done so, watch the Concert for the Masses from the 101 tour filmed at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena in 1988. I was there & it was a religious experience.

[@ninawildr4207]

The heavens parted and the angels descended when i first heard violator...flood and wilder made me an addict! I wish they could work together again

[@WickedKingLycoan]

They still do work together. In fact, I saw them in 2018 in Phoenix. They rocked it. Not to mention the opening band Warpaint, who completely kicked out the jams!

[@TheGrayMatters]

Violator is an all-time top 5 album. Just perfection. Top 5 from the 90’s 5. I Feel You 4. World In My Eyes 3. It’s No Good 2. Halo 1. Policy Of Truth

[@ProfessorofRock]

I like your 5er. Halo is great.

[@TheGrayMatters]

Professor of Rock honestly. It should be higher. I probably should put it number 2.

[@TheGrayMatters]

Professor of Rock Fixed! 😎

[@noremar12]

The Love Thieves and Useless

[@noremar12]

I prefer a top ten

[@rumalo]

songs of faith and devotion to me is the best album, a true masterpiece Top 5 5- it's no good 4- condemnation 3- policy of truth 2- enjoy the silence 1- walking in my shoes

[@MrChristine79]

I get goosebumps listening to this guy talking so passionately about my favourite band , love it⚘

[@josepharmas1213]

It’s no good was on Ultra

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

Joseph Armas Well Policy Of Truth and Enjoy The Silence are from Violator- he’s just saying SOFAD was his favourite album, but these are his favourite songs altogether.

[@nobrega]

SOFD is the masterpiece for me. Dm are by far the best band in the world. Period

[@cmjm123]

My favorites are still "Music for the Masses" , "Violator" and "Ultra" But "Black Celebration" and "Songs.." are huge also..

[@cristobalaguilar8410]

DM. 90s 5. It's No Good 4. Useless 3. Precious 2. Enjoy the Silence 1. Policy of Truth

[@adamdodgshon638]

I agree with you about SOFAD. However, I would say they did release 4 masterpieces in a row because Some Great Reward is a phenomenal album and a complete masterpiece. The album tracks are actually stronger than the singles. Lie To Me and If You Want? Come on! Outstanding. :-)

[@vnvmode]

From a big DM fan great review! Halo should have been released commercially, not just a promo....

[@WillScaryForCandy]

Do a video about the music in the movie Atomic Blonde. Best movie soundtrack I have ever had the joy to listen and watch. Depeche Mode, New Order, After the Fire, etc. So good.

[@Jon.......]

Dude, you should be Joe Rogan's first guest when he switches to Spotify! DM Rules!

[@dkmyww]

Alan Wilder departure marked the end of DM as a leading band ... ULTRA has allot of demo’s and outtakes before he left ... since he left ..they have released allot of garbage !

[@butchdavis957]

You mentioned Sea of Sin.. How about a piece on all of their amazing B-sides, even including their amazing instrumentals such as Agent Orange, Dangerous, Kaleid, etc..

[@depeszTOja]

Starting from Playingthe Angel - but one or two songs on album only bsides are listenable. Free Newborn Oh Well Happens all the time All thats mine

[@twistedviewlabs]

Dig that 5'er. Here's mine for the 80's, 90's and 2000's (since you've covered the first two decades already). Keep in mind, these aren't in any real order. 80's 1. Stripped 2. Pipeline 3. To Have and To Hold 4. Blasphemous Rumours 5. Fly On The Windscreen (the version on Catching Up With Depeche Mode) 90's 1. Sweetest Perfection 2. Home 3. In Your Room 4. Dangerous 5. Only When I Lose Myself 2000's 1. Precious 2. The Sweetest Condition 3. Jezebel 4. A Pain That I'm Used To (when I first heard this, I thought Alan Wilder had secretly rejoined the band) 5. The Sinner In Me

[@lolam.9291]

I have loved DM since I was a kid. I was able to see them in concert in 1988. Although I remain a fan to this very day, I kinda lost taste after Alan parted with the band. Their current work doesn’t have that Midas touch. I am still hoping 🙏🏼 for a reunion.

[@dwinterx]

I saw them for the first time in 1990 on the World Violation tour (got to be the best tour name ever!). Totally unforgettable and also my first ever proper gig. Saw them next for the first UK concert for the Devotional tour. Whilst it was special, I don't think the venue helped. It was an open air gig at Crystal Palace stadium. I was standing, but fairly far back and a bit self conscious, so didn't really let go. I saw them later that same year near Christmas when they came back to the UK. This was in Manchester where I lived at the GMEX. I was there early and managed to get quite close to the front. Was the most amazing experience in my life up to that point. Just the best gig ever and I'm convinced it won't ever be bettered. The ultimate DM! Of course it's great to see them still and I have been to every tour since World Violation. But the first time in 90, and that amazing night in 93 will always stand out.

[@Obiwanshinobi11]

amazing band, countless great songs, grew up listening to them very underrated back then but people only beginning to take notice of them in later years my top 5 (in no particular order) enjoy the silence personal jesus policy of truth people are people walking in my shoes

[@davidellis5141]

I thought The Cure were the band of the 80's but the 90' were great for Depeche Mode. I love the ambient mix of " Barrel Of A Gun " by Underworld.

[@johndinsdale1707]

The Cure in the 80s where a pop band and I come from Crawley and went to school with Rob. Depeche Mode made the switch from pop when Martin Gore joined the band an euraser was formed?

[@MoizAudio]

let's be real without Alan..depeche mode would be playing at your local bar mitzvah and Martin would be in jail for stalking Vince

[@chadlucas7349]

So true!

[@calimero242]

play 'Higher Love' on a good vaccum HIFI on a quiet night. it makes your top 5

[@Penny2018.]

Went to see DM concert in London 93 song of faith and devotion. The whole performance from backing singers to wilder on drums amazing. 5 - mercy in you. 4- higher love. 3- enjoy the silence. 2- fly on the windscreen 1-in your room. (the live performance of this song from song of faith 93 is unbelievable 😍.

[@helencold2457]

DM is the Gods of Music ! And SOFAD is the one of the best album !

[@Windupchronic]

DM were a huge part of my childhood. The first song I remember hearing was Just Can't Get Enough, but didn't know the band. It was People Are People that broke them into my consciousness. Suddenly, everybody at school knew who Depeche Mode was. And Shake the Disease only solidified them as favorites. But it was the four hit combo of Black Celebration, Music for the Masses, 101 and Violator that made them supreme emperors of pop. I include 101, even though it's a live album, because it was probably the cassette I listened to most for about two years, aside from maybe New Order's Substance. They were monsters. I was able to see them three times: Music for the Masses (unfortunately not the 101 show; I saw them at the Forum the year prior), World Violation and the Devotional tour for Songs of Faith and Devotion.

[@MareTranquillitatis]

If I knew you back then, you’d probably be my best friend. Similar to your story, People Are People was the first DM song I ever heard and cemented them as my favorite band. However, New Order’s Substance album is still one of my favorite of all time. I’ve seen both bands live five times each at this point. DM forever!

[@ChadCurry]

When you talk about merch and the afterglow of a show, you brought tears to my eyes. I live for those moments still at the age of 47.

[@LAjudge09]

I can talk DM all day with you professor..although I agree with the list (sorta...lol), how do you not put condemnation in that top 5? Dave used to say it was his favorite to sing live. And if you listen and watch him sing it live...you would believe him. A true masterpiece of a song. Btw..Songs of faith and devotion is (in my opinion) their greatest album. Keep these videos coming sir. Im 48 and from Houston.

[@ninawildr4207]

Agreed...Wilders masterpiece!

[@bread_n_butter8614]

SOFAD and Violator are among the best back to back albums ever from a band, Depeche Mode never recovered from Alan Wilder's departure even though Ultra was very good

[@chadlucas7349]

They had to use Tim Simenon and his crew to make Ultra. It’s a good album bit two of the singles on it have terrible arrangements IMO. It’s No good and Barrel of a Gun would have been better if Alan had arranged them. No member of DM arranges their music anymore. Sad.

[@warganization]

Ultra is fantastic & Playing the Angel is on par with most of the Wilder stuff. after that it's hit or miss I suppose but I definitely have a soft spot for Delta Machine

[@joshuawilliams7351]

I just saw DM 4x in 20 days. 3 times in 1 week. They played your 5er at every show. Brooklyn, Philly, MSG, & Cleveland. I heard Home at one concert, 4 songs off Black Celebration at another. I also saw them back in April in Chicago. I think saying Anton C was a 5th member is an overstatement but being a U2 fan since my dad gave them a cab ride in San Fran in 87, discovering the DM catalog was better than getting into U2 but felt similar due to the AC photography. Your fiver is definitely solid.

[@chicameowr]

Saw twice in Chicago, do happy to have seen them live. I relive it in mind over and over 🌹❤

[@sg7335]

Depeche Mode’s Violator Tour was the first concert I ever went to.

[@jsbinore3729]

Same here! Dodger Stadium 080490

[@davisanaiz6742]

World Violation was my first and best concert!! With Nitzer Ebb opening up. Epic!!!

[@sg7335]

Same for me.Saw them at the Spectrum in Philadelphia.

[@atudarden342]

My first DM concert too. Saw them twice for that tour in New York: Giants Stadium and Radio City Music Hall.

[@GenerationXChick]

DM forever!

[@michaeleaton2897]

I've loved DM since Some Great Reward came out. Their best music was due to Alan Wilder. DM without Alan, unfortunately, is Demo Mode.

[@ninawildr4207]

Lol

[@lumiesgotcha]

Right. i wished they did appreciate him more. i need more music like the Violator album.

[@chadlucas7349]

So true. The arrangements and production in general are sub par since Alan left.

[@blackcoffy83]

Great video Professor! I'm a Depeche Mode fan but I'm working through listening to all the albums so I haven't listened to Ultra as yet. My Fiver for 90's DM is Waiting for the Night to Come, The Mercy In You, I Feel You, Enjoy the Silence and Halo. There are many more songs from the 90's that I love from them.

[@EmpressTouch]

Don't forget to listen to the b-sides, extended mixes and live tracks. There's more tangible audio art content in Depeche's music than just about any artist-team's music on the planet.

[@mightyafrodite]

Useless is the best song from Ultra - should really be in place of Its No Good for the 5’er

[@MyargonautsJason]

Violator is an unmitigated masterpiece, but the thumbnail for this video implies that DM should be considered the BAND of the 90s... well, putting aside Grunge and bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam for a moment, I think that title would have to go to R.E.M. instead. They released 5 albums in the 90s (to DM's 3) and TWO of those are also masterpiece albums - Out of Time (1991) and Automatic for the People (1992). Both DM and REM are bands that made brilliant records in the 80s, were highly influential in their genre, and hit their artistic peak in the 90s.

[@markleaning107]

Songs is a total masterpiece. In your room was once described as the greatest song ever written I totally agree. Album version

[@edhirt6946]

I love Depeche Mode ... hard to cut down for a top 5. I guess my top 5 are Precious, Never Let me Down again, Blasphemous Rumours, Everything Counts, and either Enjoy the Silence or Just Can’t Get Enough. Wow, they are great though ...

[@arrinstoner]

Damn. I can't believe you actually claimed that Songs of Faith and Devotion isn't a masterpiece. SMH. I had to give you a thumbs down (first thumbs down I've ever given you) for this claim alone as the rest of your commentary is spot on. But this is such a bold claim that it requires some justification but you don't give a single one. Songs of Faith and Devotion is arguably as good if not better than Violator which is frequently touted as their best album. I challenge you to find a single filler song on Songs of Faith and Devotion. I challenge you to find a single reasonable criticism for why Songs of Faith and Devotion isn't a masterpiece. I'll wait. From start to finish Songs of Faith and Devotion is without a doubt Depeche Modes most musically interesting, complex, dark, soulful and challenging album. The lyrics are a masterpiece in and of themselves. Take the lyrics as a stand alone, I challenge you to find me another DM album with lyrics as good from start to finish. Good luck. Show me another DM album with as much musical talent displayed as Songs of Faith and Devotion. Again, good luck. Dave Gahan's vocal performances on Songs of Faith and Devotion are by far his best. Only on the song "We Should Be Higher" (Delta Machine) will you find a better vocal performance, and that's just one song. On Songs of Faith and Devotion Gahan is giving us his soul on every single track he's on. With Songs of Faith and Devotion you see DM moving away from a pure electronic driven sound (synth, drum machine, programming, sampling, etc.) and moving towards using piano, guitar, drums, etc. This was primarily the doing of multi instrumentalist Alan Wilder who clearly was the captain of the ship at this stage as the band was falling apart. And it's with Songs of Faith and Devotion that you see just how brilliant Wilder is and how key he was to DM's success.

[@michaelwhite2600]

I was a fan from 1981- Violator. They were too dark after that.

[@marklawson1773]

Violator is a masterpiece, every song resonates. For me, enjoy the silence kickstarts 90’s music. Proud to have seen them live during the violator tour abs every tour since.

[@mbtoober]

The amazing song “Home” never got much fanfare that I know of, but it’s great, when I make a movie, I’ll have to use it, such a cinematic piece 😄

[@mheberling5939]

As for Depeche Mode memories? Dude, I've got a legendary story. Involving them at a after show bar. Includes the band Nitzer Ebb. Anyway, some other day. Loved your assessment of DM and I completely agree. Ultra was the last GREAT DM record. They have had good ones since, but Ultra was so good.

[@kristiankvasnica3003]

Because since Alan left ... Ultra is only dejavu from Golden Era ... it isnt anymore DM, but Dave Gahan band

[@djkenny1202]

Playing The Angel was a brief return to the true DM sound. Exciter, Delta Machine and Spirt were pretty much disappointing to me.

[@stephanmampaey67]

@@djkenny1202 I totally agree. Whenever I play one of their albums, it's always from beginning to end, but never when it's one of the last 3 you mentioned. Exciter did anything but live up to it's title, Delta Machine had influences of blues, but had just one great track which was so stunning when played live, 'Should be higher'. And Spirit... didn't inspire. Again just one outstanding track 'Cover Me'. Playing The Angel was indeed a good but unfortunately brief return. Best track there was 'Nothing's Impossible'. They have this rule of never playing the same sound twice, but I'm hoping their next album (2021?) will take them and the fans back to their true DM sound. Nothing's Impossible....

[@shawneeanstett7253]

You definitely hit the nail on the head with this one. We discovered DM just about the same time and we definitely share the same love and passion for this these guys!!

[@mjweber0313]

Next to The Beatles and Rolling Stones...Depeche Mode has the GREATEST catalog of songs hands down.

[@ayeshaafroz166]

No....... It's U2

[@fawlteemontee3118]

Professor, thank you again for another good, passionate episode. D🌹M forever!

[@edalarconreal]

I lived in the UK in and I think I was 12 years old when I started listening to DM...circa 1982...and I never stopped. Have seen them live many times! Early DM was awesome, but very basic until Black Celebration, then it went more commercial but still with same coolness. M4TM and Violator my top of all time. As of late, too many songs are not that good...1 or 2 save the albums.

[@BethelAbba]

3 Chords and the truth. 6 LPs and a T-shirt: 1 - Billy Joel "The Stranger" 1977 2 - Supertramp "Breakfast in America" 1979 3 - Bruce Springsteen & The E street Band "Live 1975-1985" 1986 4 - Iron Butterfly "Inagaddadavida" 1968 5 - Doobie Brothers "Taking It To the Streets" 1976 (GREAT ALBUM!!!!) 6 - Frank Sinatra "Days of Wine and Roses" 1964 Adam is wearing a SWEET Elvis T-shirt. Way to go Adam! GGGWY!

[@neuralimplant]

You should do a segment on just Alan Wilder...If you haven't already...

[@nieumarla]

This!

[@jorgeccaa]

I beg to disagree, but from Black Celebration to Ultra, they are all masterpieces. Not a single track to skip in any of those 5 albums. So that’s 5 Masterpieces in row, in my humble opinion...

[@ravibritto6334]

jccaa absolutely right.......

[@jeffkillion3383]

Depeche Mode's 90's material is my absolute favorite in all of music. For any fan of "modern rock/alternative", it's truly transcendent. My 90's fiver is almost exactly the same as Adam's: Enjoy The Silence, Policy Of Truth, World In My Eyes, Walking In My Shoes, One Caress

[@joelashadali]

2 greatest b sides Sea of Sin The happiest girl

[@AaronLaw92]

I feel the merch comment. It is an amazing experience... I have been lucky enough to see DM quite a few times now and I hope to be back down the front once we are all allowed out again!

[@lorenwil]

Not even an honorary mention for Personal Jesus? 5. World In My Eyes 4. It's No Good 3. Walking In My Shoes 2. Personal Jesus 1. Enjoy The Silence *Honorary mentions to: Home, Halo, and I Feel You

[@ProfessorofRock]

It came out in 89...

[@lorenwil]

Professor of Rock Doh! Good answer. 😜 I love your great content and your Spotify playlists!

[@michaelmoraga2926]

"World in My Eyes" has been my favorite DM song since the first time I heard those opening notes... "Violator" is a sonic multiple orgasm.

[@remicius974]

10.Home 9.In Your Room 8.Blue Dress 7.Higher Love 6.Condemnation 5.Walking In My Shoes 4.Enjoy The Silence 3.Halo 2.Policy Of Truth 1.Personal Jesus

[@djalioop]

Depeche Mode are Rulers of Alternative Music. Luv this channel thank you again Professor Of Rock.

[@Jordanmode]

I loved this video. Just the idea of talking about their 90’s stuff. I always got so defensive of the band when I was younger, and people would scoff at my love for them by calling them an 80’s band. I’d practically scream that their best, and most successful work, came out in the 90’s. I am going to type where I wasn’t on the same page, but make no mistake that I think your takes are just great. I *do* consider SoFaD to be another masterpiece from the band (Ultra as well, actually). Devotion is just an artistic high-point for the band, musically and aesthetically. They’d never done anything like it before or since. Alan truly went out with a bang. Also, while Singles 86>98 was a compilation, I think the single and b-side that came with it (Only When I Lose Myself and Surrender) are among their very best, and most underrated work, musically and lyrically. “I can feel the emptiness inside me fade and disappear. There’s a feeling of contentment now that you are here. I feel satisfied, I belong inside, your velvet heaven.” Fuckin beautiful.

[@TimothySmiths]

Bought Violator the day it came out..was at the music store first thing that morning after it opened..I had already heard a taste of all the tracks from KROQ before hand..I played the hell out of that CD after getting it..I recall buying Midnight Oil's Blue Sky Mine on same day as well.Back when Music buying was fun and such diversity was coming out and played on the radio..now it feels like very little of any substance..and the joy is gone.

[@chrissyhammond9089]

YOU beautiful expressive soul..thank YOU for "saving the music, my "professor of rock".... there ARE indeed soulmates after all!!!!!😲 YOU.. are my musical "soulmate" Adam, as far as I'm concerned anyway😁😆🎵🎶🎧🎛🎙🎤🎹 my gawd though!!! Overwhelmingly so, it's just mindblowing!! You're brilliant and SO appreciated!!!!🤩☺👍✌😀 "music is the universal language" "the music shall last!!!!"😘 Gratitude!!☆ "Andy Bell (Erasure) the Smiths, the Cure, it's like you're always speaking for me vicariously!🌹

[@neilkinman1157]

I don't always agree with you, (flock of seagulls), but overall I completely empathize. We are the same age and similar experience. I used to blast Tiffany, Bryan Adams, Genesis and Def Leppard. It was all great!

[@mikewilson3581]

After Alan left it just wasn't the same for me. Alan is a classically trained musician and was really a second producer in the studio. Sort of the quiet one as well. Just did the job. New Order is my band and Peter Hook is my favorite musician. When he left it was painful. I watch all those old N.O. videos and shows with some sadness.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I totally agree. I love Peter Hook.

[@mikewilson3581]

@@ProfessorofRock Fantastic! He inspired me to play the bass!

[@thisistype_concept9964]

absolutely right

[@EmpressTouch]

Alan's ability to improvise made Depeche's MID instrumental parts superb. The b-side instrumentals too. As regards Hooky, when his bass fitted in with the musical context of New Orders' songs the end product was amazing, mind-blowing at times. Both bands' inability to find a way to get on with each other really makes me worry about what's going on on this planet. Both make great music.

[@mikewilson3581]

@@EmpressTouch 100% Agree!