Depeche Mode - Gore & Gahan: Vocals, past and present

[@marshallpotter818]

Martin’s vibrato has gotten uncontrollable in his older age. He was able to control it when he was in his 30’s. But over the last 10 years it’s really gotten out of control. Almost a warble now. Dave’s voice had little to no depth (rasp or dramatics) until 1993. Dave made a conscious effort to get more “rock” after Violator. And I think he wanted to add more color to his vocals. Personally, I love Dave’s voice more now, and I loved Martin’s voice in the 1980’s.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Marshall Potter great observation there Marshall!! V😎👍

[@Ssunnsshinee]

I preferred Martin’s clear notes when he was younger, but I still love Martin’s vocals even with the heavy vibrato, and I love how much more confident he is now. I really like how Dave’s voice has aged... a bit of raspiness and growl to it, and showing a lot more emotion. Like what is referred to @ 35:25 - 36:30 with the voice breaking a bit over some of the words. It adds a lot of depth. I don’t care so much for the more nasal sounds he’s picked up though. (Never been overly fond of nasal voices in any singer, sounds like they have allergies 🤪 )

[@burns46824]

Martin does that exaggerated vibrato on purpose…

[@tudoracid1812]

One thing I liked about Violator was the blurring between Dave and Martin's vocals

[@VaughnGeorge]

You're right!! V:-)

[@thebeardedseeker5633]

this not only gives me a new appreciation of DM's music but also insight into the complexities involved in crafting a song together. great video. thanks.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Cheers Richard!! V:-)

[@pacificbuildingcare]

Excellent analyzing between Dave Gahan and Martin Gore how they're different but both unique in their voices. I'm glad they still have their voices after all these years they still have so much spark in them they're going to play for many years to come.

[@Elena-jf5xu]

The most perfect voice imitation that I have ever heard so far

[@VaughnGeorge]

Elena thank you!! V:-) xx

[@littlewing2023]

As a female, I love Dave's sexy voice. "Only when I lose myself" is by far my favorite, Dave sounds lusty like he wants me(hehehe, I wish!) 😍. And I cry like a baby when Martin sings "a question of lust" I hear the opening melody, and my eyes start to water😭.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Sister of night thank you and I am always happy to get a females perspective as it seems that 80% of my subscribers are male . V:-)

[@R---66---R]

And as a die-hard DM'r and as a 'man' (!), I try to sing a long in a loud voice, with most of these -most of the time 'fragile' DM's artistic outings and sometimes must stop doing so, caus of these emotional peaks in between, caus of these sincere recorded words and phrases... So, take my word for it: men 'do' cry too whilst listening to these magnificent DM-voices and the emotion grabs ya by the throat/all proven to be universal...real art goes for the heart!

[@tee331]

@@R---66---R so true

[@rosfow]

@@VaughnGeorge I agree. Dave's voice is sexy af.

[@ValeryBoikov]

Well, it's natural that guys in their 50's will not sound the same as in their youth. But they both are still really good singers that complement each other. Martin's always seemed more "sensual" to me, kinda more melodic, and Dave's voice seems more powerful, he can really pull of a rock song. When they sing together, it works really well, with Dave providing strong basis and Martin singing a beautiful melody over it. Martin is still capable of giving emotional performance, the kind that gives you watery eyes. What really surprised me on later records, is that even though Dave now has more blues/rock sounding voice, he can pull off pretty high notes on songs like Goodnight Lovers, Peace and Should Be Higher. And in general I think Delta Machine was his the most bluesy performance. Kinda makes me think that DM should have done more songs like Death's Door...

[@VaughnGeorge]

Valery hi!! Yes both singer are leaning quite heavily into blues these days !! I enjoyed reading this detail and well written post !! Thank you !! V:-)

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Gore has always been a magnificent singer. My favorite eras vocal wise for Gore and Gahan are Black Celebration, Music for the Masses, Violator and SOFAD. Gore showcases his vocal range beautifully on those albums. Gahan is a very good and unique singer who knows how to convey the emotion of Gore's songs. They're both fantastic in my opinion.

[@robmiranda7120]

I just can’t get enough of your Depeche Mode videos !

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you Sir!! VG:-)

[@patrikberglund5717]

Your channel is one of the best!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Patrik , thank you so much !! V:-)

[@Bobbyc9d8w]

This was just amazing. I've said for a long time that Dave's voice hasn't quite been the same since the 98 singles tour. Still love his voice though. Cheers for another brilliant video. X

[@VaughnGeorge]

Helo Stu !! You're welcome and thank you !! V:-)

[@kikirsty66]

Have you incorporated in your videos when they had the background ladies singing. Oh i thought that was sooooo unfitting back then.

[@nicolas1400]

I was expecting you to mention that in "Behind the Wheel" Martin sings almost the entire song in a higher octave, except for the "watch me move" and "you behind the wheel" phrases, where he cleverly moves from the higher octave to a lower line to harmonize in thirds with Dave, creating a different vibe just for a few seconds of the song. This is so subtle that is maybe hard to notice at first listen, but it's just another example of the genius Martin is.

[@oceane_chin]

Good observation

[@dvidwayne1192]

Thank you for another great video Vaughn! Always enjoy! I'm really looking forward to seeing your album-by-album breakdown of DM.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Dave Williams hello again my friend and it’s good to hear form you again!! Thanks for your constant support !!👍😎V

[@OscarPerez-kb2od]

Although I really dig some of their earlier stuff I have to agree with another commentor that they never sounded better than during Songs of Faith and Devotion.In your room..doesnt get any better than that.Great vid my friend!! You have found your niche.All the luck with your channel.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hello Oscar again and thank you my friend!! V:-)

[@heloisearmes3924]

I really enjoy your videos. You put in a lot of effort and information into your videos.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Heloise Armes thank you and I am glad you appreciate the effort !! V👍😎

[@nataliaromero9932]

I'm feeling it and flowing with it! This is the kind of conversation/videos only fans crave for. Btw please make a video about Pimf. 🤗

[@VaughnGeorge]

Pimpf!! Will do!!

[@ash23neuro]

@@VaughnGeorge Pimpf is my 3 year old son's fav DM track ;)

[@nataliaromero9932]

Yes! Btw you droped the "f" last time and I'm droping the "p" now. Funny. That song is working as a muse these days since I'm starting to work on my thesis on environmental issues. So whenever you have a chance please upload a vid about PIMPF: an instrumental masterpiece. ❤

[@VaughnGeorge]

Natalia Romeri a masterpiece indeed !!

[@ninawildr4207]

Dave voice =sex Martin=angels descending from the heavens...

[@LiquidxAngel]

This is a perfect comparison.

[@chrisbean]

Yup. True that.

[@katycanino1566]

I agree, oofff!

[@lune78]

I'd say that's about right.

[@shallowwaters6690]

Nailed it!

[@wheelerone]

Love your breakdowns! Keep up the great great videos Vaughn

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you !! V:-)

[@joseitsme]

I love both singers, but Dave gives that Depeche Mode vibe to the songs. It's sexiness and the tone fits for what Dave sings. Songs like Strangelove, Policy of truth, Black Celebration; ect.

[@sarahdmgirl5743]

I wonder if Martin's on stage solo performances gained in confidence after he had his teeth fixed? He used to have very wonky teeth and it could be that he was self-conscious about them. Now he's not afraid to flash his pearly whites!

[@vlad161092]

Yeah, also wondered on this matter

[@MonoLith2049]

back in the early 80s many of the synth pop bands weren't very animated. kind of like Kraftwerk. that's how it was back then. DM, Yazoo, Soft Cell even Sparks the musicians would remain mostly emotionless & motionless while whoever was up the front singing would be flailing their arms about

[@spencerholmes1047]

Good point. He kept that wonky teeth for some time. Now its Californication

[@Kickingit06]

Possible, but I tend to doubt it. I think he didn't fix the teeth for the long time for two reasons: 1. It's the British thing to do. 2. He worried that it would adversely affect his voice.

[@spencerholmes1047]

@@Kickingit06 this is an interesting thought. Im sure he was told many times about his teeth. It was real weird. One tooth growing through another…Eek

[@chrisnorton2837]

Interesting video. Thank you. I think there were great ideas in the video and great discussion in the comments. I feel for the most part you guys are on point. I found it fascinating though, that people apparently don't like Exciter very much. Personally, it's one of my favorites in their catalogue. I've listened to it more often than most of their albums. I mean, sure, I have heard other albums more times, but I have owned those much longer. 😊 I love Dream On. Fantastic song. Amongst their more recent albums, Exciter and Sounds of the Universe have gotten the most recent spins in my house. 👍

[@JessTea]

This video was such a breath of fresh air for me. I talk to my camera but I don't have the equipment to really edit and have quality content. What you do inspires me so much. I thank you for your devotion to something bigger than most people realize. One thing I have to say is I love the way you articulate a good discussion about distinct differences in their singing. I love to talk about music history and how it's changed the face of electronic music . I live in a Depeche Mode house hold ! Your my favorite channel hands down!

[@jerome6495]

Excellent analysis, technical and careful ! Go ahead George !

[@VaughnGeorge]

Jérôme Kiwy thank you so much !!👍😎V

[@darrecotta]

Hello Mate, another fantastically described video. Being a massive DM fan, I understand how hard it is to put into words the difference in both Dave's and Martin's voices over the years in such a short video. I remember clearly seeing Martin perform Somebody in November 1984 at Hammersmith Odeon, he looked petrified walking out from behind his synths. Whereas the last gig I was Sounds of the Universe in London (Which Alan was at watching) and vocally he nailed Home. Also I love your demo's you do, keep up the awesome work! (I see your up to 3.6k subscribers...great work mate)

[@liyanaa6563]

😮 Alan was in the crowd? How sporting of him!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Darren hello again my friend and I am so grateful to you for you constant support!! V;-)

[@BvirtuallY]

Four years ago...see, my daughter, husband and I are seeing DM on Halloween 2023.

[@marccartledge2752]

Another excellent vlog my friend! This is a massive subject and I agree with everything you said. For me personally I think the song with the best harmonics has to be Insight. They performed it when I saw them at Birmingham in 2017 and it blew me away. As far as Dave’s best vocals are concerned I love Dangerous, Only when I lose myself and Halo and just way to many to mention for Martin! Keep up the good work and I look forward to the next one

[@VaughnGeorge]

Marc Cartledge thank you for your kind comment and for sharing your thoughts!! I appreciate your support!! V😎👍

[@bonaire21]

Thank you for that in depth lesson, Vaughn - you put a lot of effort into it. As a fan of electronic music I appreciate your videos a lot, especially the DM stuff. Go ahead with it!

[@LemnzestManatee]

Love your videos! Always look forward to them!

[@spencerholmes1047]

Great show. Thankyou. You dont need to change anything. I see you cover just about every element. Keep it up.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Spencer Holmes my friend !! Thank you for your constant support and contribution to the channel !!😎👍V

[@RedlineRacer]

Another great video, very easy to follow along. Thanks!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you and hell again!! V:-)

[@MadAboutShelley]

Oh! I'm so glad to have found your video! I'm a big Depeche Mode fan, that's how I found your video, and as a literacy phonemic teacher, I've recently discovered how much of singing is concerned with phonemics (obvious to me now, ha, but it took a while to click). Anyway, I love your teaching and discussion here! Look forward to more!

[@VaughnGeorge]

MadAboutShelley I’m glad you found the channel and you are very welcome here!! VG🎹👍😎

[@Hairyfoot_Studio]

Hi Vaughn, interesting video. I agree with the changing voices of both men, Gahan especially. I think of 4 phases of Gahans voice. Prior to some Great Reward he had what I call his teenager voice (that was literally true for Speak and Spell), and he had the callowness of youth and was really quite unrefined. Listen to My secret Garden of a Broken frame and its all over the place. From Some Great Reward through to Violator he perfected what we can now call his 'Classic Mode' delivery. Songs of faith and Devotion almost stands on its own as a vocal masterpiece; soulful, expressive and powerful. I saw an interview where Dave said he felt like a real singer after his performance of Condemnation. But the Devotional Tour and his drug use damaged his voice in my opinion. Listen to the live versions of Barrel of a gun from the Ultra period and you can hear the toll it has taken on the voice. But what he lost in terms of clarity he gained in raw soulful emotion. I like all periods of his voice, from naive youth to experienced troubadour its interseting to see a person grow and through adversity change.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Brilliant perspective which I'd like to reference in the Dave Gahan video coming soon!! V:-)

[@vlad161092]

Remember the Condemnation 2001 live version when Dave seemed to be about to break and tear his own throat taking most emotional high pitch notes

[@Audiorial]

very true

[@kkkriv7407]

Amen! First post i truly agree with all the way to the end. And same with Martin as well. Both sing with much more SOUL, emotion as they age... And grow up. ;) In fact, lest we forget, many criticized that the guys in early days, thru 'Masses,' sang far too 'rehearsed" (Dave especially), even robotic, live. I loved every tour regardless , but the beautiful soul, sweat & grit is worth mentioning....!

[@djfelifel420]

Your impression of Dave's "growl" Is hilarious. 😂 but you're right Dave's voice has changed - especially noticeable live. You definitely notice Martin uses a lot of vibrato while singing live also. Great video! Keep up the great work. Feels like a casual chat with a friend about depeche mode.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Felicia thank you for your kind words and yes I do want these vides to feel like we are indeed two friends chatting in a room !! See you on the next video!! V:-)

[@Red_Ford]

This is the reason why I avoid DM live performances. At the moment I think that they are good only in the studio. Sad but true.

[@wujianjing6618]

Wonderful demonstrations, so to the point! Thank you!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hello Wu!! Thank you !! V:-)

[@Nephilim-81]

Always have loved ‘Photograph.’ I feel it’s quite underrated. My favourite off their first album. 😀

[@thodeus]

I think you mean *_Photographic._* same here. I love the old stuff.

[@Nephilim-81]

Thodeus. I do. Thank you for the correction. 😌

[@VaughnGeorge]

I've always loved "Photographic!!" V:-)

[@VaughnGeorge]

Stuart Maxwell 😂👍V

[@nicklewis615]

I love this video - brilliantly explained, for a non-musician like myself. Personally, I don't like the way Dave sings live these days. He tends to shout/ bellow, losing the subtlety of the studio versions (new material as well as old). As a Roxy Music fan as well, I'd love it if you did a similar video on how Bryan Ferry's voice has changed over the years. Thanks again for a great video.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Nick hi!! Thank you for your kind words and I am happy you like it here on this channel!! V :-)

[@kingcharlie4]

Awesome video! Went by really fast!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thanks Jimmy I am glad you enjoyed it!! V:-)

[@marcchristopher4673]

Hi Vaughn, great dissection of two very different yet two brilliant performers . Ive attached a link of my personal Daves best live vocal track . What i have a great deal of respect for Dave is his admiration and always giving props , whether onstage or in interviews for Martin. I think people forget or lose sight of egos , especially the egos of front men. I feel like Dave has always kind of deflected the attention when given the chance towards Martin, possibly because of Martins shyness but its apparent to me at least that Dave has never lost his respect for DMs true backbone genius , creative contributing to success factor. Martins vocals have obviously more range and complexity than Daves, but I am equally as in awe of Dave's leading presence.. his Elvis/Mick Jagger/Dave Gahan character , his unique sex appeal and mostly his never unwavering commitment to excellence to his fans that is so clearly conveyed in his shows. No matter how high, or of serious health issues Dave gives everything to the people that adore DM . Its so clear of your fascination by and the effect youve felt by this band and your attention to every detail and its shared and appreciated , thank you again for contributions Vaughn. kzbin.info/www/bejne/enyxfIKDjNqhhNk to note, I also think Martins performance of Home in this concert is just as jaw dropping and able to give chills. Thank you for allowing me to share.

[@bennetsi]

Beautiful. Made me cry. Thanks for that link.

[@marcchristopher4673]

@@bennetsi your welcome , i forgot i even commented ...its crazy i was just watching a recent concert and kind of blown away by their appearance... i really have love for the band and i feel like i grew up with them and have nothing but respect ... but... i think maybe its time ... i didnt like seeing what i saw , maybe it was more about me and my own mortality or vanity , idk , but i just like to have them in mind as the progressive , original , vanguards that i could put a concert on with company who wasnt really familiar with the band and recruit or share them with , and the other night i just felt like company would be appalled like i turned on porn ... they (dave and martin) looked like a couple ederly women or men in drag , idk .. like i said , its probably just my vanity or mortality .... but im glad you were moved by that video , i dont know why they didnt do that song more live ...this one had an affect on me , it wasnt long before he died i think .... be good sweet lady :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/an6wlKKIgpuIkNE

[@JosueGonzalez-bh3rp]

Love the videos and the tangents! Keep doing your videos! (Aka keep entertaining us!)

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you for your support !! V:-)

[@Kate-448]

Just discovered your channel. As a non-musician, i'm really enjoying your in-depth analysis. I've been revisiting old Depeche Mode tracks and concert footage and have noticed that Dave sings certain words differently in more recent years. For example, "I'm waiting for the night to fall" used to sound smoother and now the word "night" is drawn out and a little raspy. He's still a great singer IMO, but i prefer his vocals around the SOFAD era.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Welcome aboard Kate!! I am glad you found us!! VG :-)

[@christophschmitt1099]

Impressed with this deep dive, very well done, Thanks

[@Chewy1015]

Awesome video. I'm glad you very briefly mentioned how in the studio, Dave will sing in his head voice quite a bit, but live, nowadays mainly, he'll use his chest voice 100%. Really good example is to listen to the studio recording of "Freelove" from Exciter, and then listen to the live version of that song from the Exciter Tour, which I believe is a bonus track on a deluxe edition of Exciter (or you can find it on KZbin). I also loved how at the very end, when you mentioned the next planned video, you mentioned a big thing is nowadays, a lot of the songs are at a lower key. I have a feeling this may be more for Martin than it is for Dave. "It's No Good" was at a lower key on the recent Spirit Tour and I was just kinda like, "Ehhh?" Actually, the lower key thing even goes as far back as SOFAD. Listen to SOFAD Live (which is on Spotify) and notice both "I Feel You" and "Condemnation" are at a lower key, and those were from the Devotional Tour in 1993, right when that album came out.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Brilliant thank you for the observations!! V:-)

[@TheLillypillies]

well done

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you!! I hope you have subscribed!! VG :-)

[@TheLillypillies]

@@VaughnGeorge I did, finally. Hello from Sydney. Have been a big DM fan since mid 80s. Let's hope they don't interrupt their 4 year cycle! p.s this month I launched my own music finally after alot of procrastination. Congrats on the show! Manny - kzbin.info/www/bejne/in-UfmSGZdmVm68

[@pvdmarch]

I think your videos are great. Thanks.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you my friend!! I am pleased to hear that !! VG :-)

[@NeonEleven]

Another quality video 🎦 Love your work Vaughn 🎹

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hello to you again my friend and thank you so much !! V:-)

[@BearTechNation]

Great observations. Thank you.

[@terrygregory631]

Excellent video!! Thankyou !!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you Terry V ;-)

[@shallowwaters6690]

Really enjoying your critique. I have always noticed their distinct voices and thought their harmonies brought so much of the multifaceted emotionality in their songs.

[@squiremuldoon5462]

Wow i remember you had 80 subs, its like watching a good friend get famous. I live in LA and we were lucky enough to get a rendition of Things You Said when they performed in Anaheim last year, apparently they hadn't done that one since 101, i guess Martin has a thing for LA. It always a good day when you upload a video mate, Cheers!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hello again my friend and thank you !! V:-)

[@misterasterisco5217]

Just found your channel, is like flowers for us DM Fans bees!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Mister Asterisco thank you and welcome to the community my friend !! VG 😎👍🎹

[@juliemay9796]

Loved this! Please do more Depeche Mode videos. I totally agree about Martin’s stage performance as well. I still think he is kind of static now compared to Dave but he is definitely much more animated now. I think Martin’s mannerisms have improved over the years.He seems more comfortable on stage and into it. It does seem like it’s more effort but I think overall it looks like more is going on. I love both Martin and Dave. Glad someone is talking about this. Please talk about Martin’s fashion haha! You are a really good singer and awesome on the keyboard. Keep making videos so much fun! 👍🏻

[@VaughnGeorge]

Julie May Sullivan good to hear from you again !! Thank you for your kind words as always !! Many more DM videos in the pipeline !! V👍😎xx

[@Red_Ford]

I think that he feels much confident because he fixed his teeth few years ago. That change his manerism while singing.

[@Ssunnsshinee]

I always notice in the live shows that Dave seems to really encourage and reward Martin for coming out of his shell...

[@TheFilminators]

You can actually sing my friend, I'm impressed with the analysis and vocal examples

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you my friend !! I appreciate that !! VG :-)

[@andreymotorin7031]

That's what I love about Depeche Mode vocals. Thanks for the great analysis.

[@JackHekler]

You are speaking our language of DM! I like all the details in your videos, I feel like I am getting college credits, Well Done!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Jack thank you so much bro!! V:-)

[@stevecollinson6850]

Dave and Martin have sometimes exchanged lead vocal on some tracks. Condemnation is a good example. Gives the song a different effect. Great video as usual.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you Steve, I'm glad you enjoyed it!!

[@Kristy41703]

I really love your videos! It’s very interesting to learn something new about DM music, thank you very much

[@martinmak2885]

Amazing video and analysis, hi from Miami, Florida ☝🏻👍🏻

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hi Martin and thank you Sir!! V:-)

[@anti-complacencyleague]

Thank you 👏🎹 love the channel

[@VaughnGeorge]

Robert Pope Thank you Sir!!😎👍V

[@screamsfromthegrave3324]

Love your analysis, definitely helped that you demonstrated examples using your own voice

[@MewSnad]

For the longest time (as a younger fan) I thought I was just being a stick in the mud about Dave's vocal changes. Very interesting how you described them! I always thought of it was more nasally as time went on, but I can hear the growl as well. I'd still kill to see Depeche Mode live someday but when I was first getting into DM I wasn't as sure because I hadn't seen any (recent) live videos without the growl/nasality (the chorus Barrel Of A Gun is always the first example the comes to mind. I think my uncertainty was also purely because of how new I was to the band). Seeing videos like this though (and finding ones of live versions where Gahan is straining himself in those ways less (quite a few recent live versions of In Your Room are incredible)) reminds me that I absolutely NEED to see DM live in the future! Fantastic video! Also gave me an even stronger, newfound appreciation for Martins vocals, the combo of them both really do make Depeche Mode

[@tioalexandru]

Saw that you posted a new video. Fastest click in my life.

[@srschirm]

You're not the only one! :D

[@ninawildr4207]

Yep

[@darrecotta]

Same, the kids went to bed early... 🤣🤣🤣

[@VaughnGeorge]

ahahahah thank you my friend!! Glad you're enjoying the channel!! V:-)

[@slumdogjay]

I enjoyed that. Keep em coming. :)

[@VaughnGeorge]

Cheers Jay!! V:-)

[@augmentedkeys5971]

I can't think of any bands that have such as perfect contrast in vocal tone and such colorful, harmoniously dynamic.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Cheers David, good to hear from you agin Sir. Appreciate the comments. V:-)

[@shadowfreak71972]

Came across a really good song to illustrate exactly what you're talking about: "Should Be Higher" is a phenomenal song in its own right and an excellent example of how Dave sounds a lot more "breathy" than say, on the Black Celebration Album while Martin is definitely carrying notes longer and using a lot more vibrato. The sound is still terrific and has found its own place among my favorites on its own merit-even sans "The Wild Man" ;)

[@GodmyX]

As a DM fan, this video was my wet dream! + You sing and play the DM songs incredibly...

[@VaughnGeorge]

Bless you !! VG :-) xx

[@GodmyX]

@@VaughnGeorge I was literally checking the old live versions as you spoke of the songs: Photographic from Hamburg 1984, Behind the WHeel from the 101 movie... and suddenly I heard what you described! I never realized that many of these known choruses were a blend of Gahan and Gore... especially NLMDA

[@OnAPlain88]

Aahh I've been waiting for this one

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hope you enjoyed it!! V;-)

[@visitor5451]

awesome video!! your ability to emulate Martin and Dave's voice is uncanny. As for the voices, I think their voices represent 2 different sides of the spectrum: if I was seeing a musical I would want to see Martin sing the lead...but if I went to a rock concert I would want to see Dave.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Yes Dave I store suited as a direct rock approach!! V:-)

[@BvirtuallY]

Loved, too, your saying Martin's voice has layers of timbre and color! That was an ideal emotional describing, and I used to tutor for writing and humanities. Have you yet seen the video in which only Alan Wilder's vocals may be heard? Says everything, even coming as a bit of a surprise to me...go see what I mean (I noticed you, too, are A BROKEN FRAME (& ALL-Depeche-Mode-records fan! Finally, what is your favorite one or two favorite DM songs? Might SUN AND THE RAINFALL, PHOTOGRAPHIC and SHAKE THE DISEASE be some? ❤❤❤

[@johndeev]

Man, you sing so great! You should be the fifth DM member. Obviously, you can play the keyboards well! 👍👏🤘

[@VaughnGeorge]

John thank you so much !! I really appreciate your support !! V:-)

[@igorkruszona4538]

I actually really like when you sing Martin's parts! It's really good

[@VaughnGeorge]

Thank you Lil !! V:-)

[@robgrossi2368]

Naaaailed it ... naaaailed it (said in a head voice one octave higher) As always, such an enjoyable video for us die hards! It takes the passion, skills and chops. You have all 3... if Alan Wilder were to produce and edit your videos they would cross over into the masterpiece realm (ok, I’ll stop 😎!). Thanks again for another interesting edition, always looking forward to more.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Rob you star!! Hello again matey and than you so much for your kind words as always!! V:-)

[@diogobastos9940]

My favourite Martin vocal is actually a song originally sung by Dave that Martin sings live - Sister Of Night. I think Martin's mouth surgery probably changed the way he sings more than his own will but he is still a heck of a vocalist.

[@patee101]

What mouth surgery?

[@ianwilson7637]

"There is a part of me that wishes I could hear music as I did before I became a musician …" Wiser words have not been said! It is difficult to appreciate the "music" as opposed to the "sounds" when your brain has become attuned to analyzing every nuance. I now have to get past the analysis before I can get to the enjoyment of the whole, and even then I'm still not sure I'm hearing it the way I "should" be.

[@debraodonnell3439]

Thank u so much for this I'm a huge fan of Depeche mode for me Martin's voice is the best most heavenly voice I have heard and the emotion when he sings sends shivers down my spine

[@VaughnGeorge]

You are welcome Debra!! VG :-)

[@MartinidM]

When we talk about Martin’s voice the cornerstone is a time when he fixed his teeth after he moved to the USA. His voice changed a lot. The shape of mouth has changed with the massive impact the way he sings. He started using vibrato, which I don't like. I call it geriatric singing. I don't know if you noticed that you mentioned only songs from Alan era. Nothing after 1993 when it comes to Martin's voice. His last good song after 1993 is Home. Everything he records with his voice after Ultra is really hard to remember and to sing. In my opinion, Martin's voice after he fixed his teeth went worse. Dave is a different story. His voice developed a lot. Devotional Tour is a fantastic example of how drugs and vodka can influence the way you sing ;-) I'm not kidding. Find bootleg - soundboard recording of San Francisco from 1994. You can hear how Dave's voice is worn-out and deep in parallel. In 1990 he didn't sing like this. Of course, this kind of living forced his voice a lot. He used a lot of steroids during 94 Tour. He had to take voice lessons around 1996-97 to renovate remaining of his voice. That's why I don't put that hight Dave's singing on Ultra. You mentioned Sister Of Night, but please mind that props should go to the producer of Ultra, not to Dave. Actually, Dave didn't sing a full line on this song. The final version is a mix of hundreds takes during the infamous 1996 session. This is one of the reasons why Dave never sang this song live. Not his level. For me, the top class of singing is on a studio album - Exciter. Fantastic voice production by Mark Bell. Clean warm singing. From low to high notes. Dave did it only on Exciter. Only Mark Bell knew how to lead Dave to archive the levels. I don't like Exciter as an album, but I can admire Dave's voice. When you compare how Dave treated his voice on The Exciter Tour this is complete contra to studio production. Dave has a deep voice which developed in a fantastic way over the years. I think he didn't sing the last word. Love what he did with Heroes on the last tour.

[@VaughnGeorge]

A great analysis there my friend !! I also often wondered if Martin's new teeth altered his voice slightly!! V:-)

[@Red_Ford]

It is true. It's all about teeth. I remember an interview with Freddy Mercury. Someone asked him for correction of occlusion. Freddy said he was thinking about it, but there were serious concerns about changing his voice after such surgery. So I think that Martin L. Gore is a perfect example of what can happened when you interfere in dentition in such a drastic way.

[@stopbunsen]

Yeah it's interesting. I remember Freddy saying the same. Stevie Nicks was also talking in an interview about how her voice changed, because she burned a hole in her nose due to rampant cocaine use. Someone said she could have surgery to fix it, but she was worried that that would change her voice even more, so she wouldn't do it.

[@greckendale]

Aside from your thoughts on Martin’s vibrato, his actual Tone, vocal maturity, and command is far superior now. From One Night In Paris to present day. That’s why he belts out songs like But Not Tonight and Shake The Disease so damn well.

[@ianwilson7637]

I have to agree that after Alan's departure, Martin's singing developed a heavy vibrato to it. It is so heavy at times that it detracts from the song and is rather irritating, so I have to agree with Martini dM on this. Martin's vibrato can get into warble territory and for me, it it cuts through the mix in a bad and very annoying way. I can barely concentrate on anything else in the song because it's like someone chewing loudly - drives me bonkers :). This has definitely gone through the roof after Ultra. For me it is a great pity because his voice is very pleasing otherwise. Interesting theory regarding the teeth though.

[@chrisbean]

By the way, you are amazing as an artist and as a teacher!!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Bless you Chris!! Thank you !! VG :-)

[@chrisbean]

Dave's voice is so sexy. I like tenor singers a lot but Dave's baritone voice particularly is the kind of voice that is missing these days.

[@anyak1446]

Depeche mode is my favorite band EVER.... and I like a lot of rock, from pink floyd to nirvana.... Still, DM takes me to a place the other bands can't.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Anya I totally agree with you!! Please do join the Vaughn George Facebook group if you haven't already!! Its a great place for like minded great people like you !! Cheers, V:-)

[@carlavalladares1817]

Loved your cat 😍

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hahahaha thank you Carla!! V:-) xx

[@motr1912]

Am I the only one who thought it was a hat? Until it moved.

[@R---66---R]

It's white and stayed all night I heard the white cat meowing: 'I just can't get enough' Till, finally, he came out of the box Wanting to record these lines on Revox!

[@marguskiis7711]

Ian Curtis of Joy Division (massively influential band) invented the modern low baritone rock vocals (old school is Elvis and others) but ironically he himself used to speak much higher than sang (usually it is vica versa). Dave has pretty natural chest voice, he is singing and speaking both pretty low. But he has imitated Ian quite a lot, like Ian he has sang higher in some songs ("See You" f.e) too like Ian did sometimes ("Heart and Soul").

[@VaughnGeorge]

I will discuss Joy Division !! V:-)

[@Synthcronized]

You have done a great job in this video.👏👏👏👏 I always have a feeling of melancholy when I listen to some DM songs. I could name many, but there is one that would stand out: Here is the House. :)

[@VaughnGeorge]

butnot mj thank you for your kind comments and I’m glad to have you on board !! V👍😎

[@Synthcronized]

Piano & Keyboard Artist Thank you so much 😀

[@ninawildr4207]

Love it when u go off topic no worries about that!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Hahahhaha hello again Hilda and thank you !!! V:-)

[@_PURAVIDA]

To their credit both Dave and Martin’s voices have EVOLVED....how many others from 40 years ago still hold you captive?

[@markwibrow9126]

Without doubt, both Martin Gores and Dave Gahans voices have both changed considerably over the years - personally speaking I adore the two albums that Dave Gahan made with Soulsavers. The richness and timbre of his vocals along with the production and orchestration (I feel) are better than anything DM have released since Songs of Faith and Devotion and would like to hear your view on these two albums. Thanks

[@stephanerodriguez4200]

Many thanks for this great analysis regarding my favorit band !

[@tjed1071]

Woww you really are obsessed with Depeche Mode.

[@danillumjrgensen3865]

Totally normal thing if I may ad!

[@mumzycat1969]

You’re saying that like it’s a bad thing. If there is a cure for DM obsession I don’t want it.

[@spendingtimetogether8428]

... and the problem is...?😄

[@7222487]

Shouldn't everyone be?

[@ewaadamska8857]

😆

[@liyanaa6563]

Another good example of present-day Dave's voice would be Angel off Delta Machine. Its polar opposite would be Fools off Construction Time Again. I think his growling style started to come out during live shows from Violator era, because if he sings with his 'head voice', it doesn't project well in arena-sized events (just my observation). Plus with all the on-stage prancing and spinning, it's not easy to go back to a muffled, in-studio voice. Also, note that present-day Dave's voice has that 'sniffle' effect (you can hear it on the words that end with an 's' like 'countries' and 'junkies' on Where's The Revolution).

[@VaughnGeorge]

Brilliant analysis!! Thank you !! V:-)

[@mumzycat1969]

Vaughn, I didn’t think I could love you more, then I saw that adorable fluffy cat. Any man that loves cats is tops in my book.

[@luismorales-guidos5159]

I'm so into your show! Watched it from about episode 2. Anyway... you're referring to chest voice and head voice... everything in between is sometimes referred to as mixed voice which is what is needed in order to bridge upward. I'd love to see an episode on Nick Rhodes btw! So influential to me! Thank you for what you do.

[@VaughnGeorge]

Luis hi and Nick Rhodes will be discussed!! V;-)

[@maverick7873]

I really loved this video, I want to learn to get the Gahan. Greetings from Brazil.

[@ebeneke]

Beautifully articulated Vaughn!

[@charlotteryborg768]

Absolutely love Martin’s voice, Dave is also good, but more mainstream, but together they are magical. I have cried, dance and enjoyed just listing to DM and I still do.

[@strychnyne3530]

I love when Dave and Martin sing together. I think Ben Hillier thought the same.

[@nicholask388]

Ben Hillier single handedly destroyed Depeche Mode I’m sorry but it’s the truth. He made them sound like a common synth pop band with no layers and atmosphere with retro bass. Ugh 3 horrible albums 🤮

[@strychnyne3530]

@@nicholask388 Delta Machine was horrible. The other 2 were good.

[@kimble02]

Nicholas K me and my buds have been saying the same for years. So glad they finally moved away from them. There were high pints in their first album together, but woah... it went south so quickly.

[@Damon759]

A very excellent video I’ve just viewed here. I’ve always said that Dave Gahan & Martin Gore are 2 of the greatest co-singers in the same band of all time. I meant singularly and harmony and I’m not saying that as a big DM fan. The others being Liam & Noel Gallagher of Oasis, before the acrimonious split, Simon & Garfunkel, Tears For Fears, The Righteous Brothers, the classic Fleetwood Mac line up consisting of Christine MacVie, Lindsey Buckingham & Stevie Nicks and finally Anni-Frid Lyngstad & Agnetha Faltskog from ABBA.

[@VaughnGeorge]

@@Damon759 glad you liked the video! Thanks for taking the time to comment! VG

[@Damon759]

@@VaughnGeorge You’re welcome sire! 😉❤️👍🏿

[@valerialm9723]

Loved your video! ❤️

[@ItsAmandaLemon]

behind the wheel is my favorite depeche song. thank you for this!

[@paolatorres134]

I love your channel :D !!!

[@VaughnGeorge]

Paola hello again and I love having you on board!! V:-)

[@leekenney9214]

You sir are a true fan! We all should know that Voices change with age... love DM! Fav albums are Construction Time and Black Celebration!! Violator was good too

[@VaughnGeorge]

Lee Kenney my friend !! Great to have fellow minded fans on this channel!! V😎👍

[@BvirtuallY]

Iyee want you now...ok ya got me singing now..

[@Maxthemode]

Great analysis👍 Love it! By the way! You should do a video about Their album Exciter... 18 years later I still can’t understand what happened there 😅

[@VaughnGeorge]

Full DM video reviews coming soon!! V;-)