Why did Alan Wilder leave Depeche Mode?

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

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[@ninalisa2303]

Thanks for your insights. I just wanted to point out the role from Fletch. He was the glue, when he left the tour 1993, the glue was missing. He was responsible for the finances and managing the group, acting as their spokesperson. That was his contribution to the band. Maybe without Fletch, DM wouldn't last so long... RIP Andrew Fletcher... Never forget his little dances ...

[@Bellasie1]

I agree with you, I believe DM's iconic sound came from Alan Wilder's musical mastery and genius, and that his presence gave it the edge that made them superstars. I am absolutely convinced they owe him their rise to international stardom and eventual recognition in their own country, too. Martin is undeniably the other gifted creative artist, with Dave being a charismatic frontman and vocalist, and their combined talent enabled the band to go on. Andrew Fletcher (RIP) seems to have been the discreet business mastermind behind the marketing, which shouldn't be neglected either. Nevertheless, Alan Wilder was the musical mastermind that made the DM magic happen and stand out from the rest of pop music in a musically rich era. While I'll always love DM, their Alan Wilder era was without questioning the best. It is such a shame they couldn't fix the problem and he felt compelled to leave. I personally believe there must have been a social & educational background dimension at play, too.

[@mikeg8630]

Thank you for providing some of the information that gives us the ability to imagine for ourselves what the answer to the question is. I'm going to go with, Alan tried to figure out how the future could be successful, and didn't think it was possible with the circumstances, and rather than go down with the ship, he decided to take control of his own destiny. And maybe if he did stay, it wouldn't have worked and become a failure. I'm thankful for "Ultra" and "Playing the Angel", and maybe Alan's departure was a wake up call and had something to do with motivating the remaining members to succeed with a greater challenge without him. It's all good. Nothing to be sad about. I sometimes like to imagine someday someone will be able to remix everything from the past and create somethings almost new and different. But then we would have to add Dave, Martin, and Alan to the creation to really make it the best product. Just a thought. Oh, and if we could all be young again, that would be great too.

[@FreddieFreethinking]

For those interested. Martin Gore is a talented songwriter. He is specially a good lyric writer. But what everybody need to know is that it is in the studio where the magic happens. Alan Wilder was the engineer that crafted the DM sound in the studio. Gore wrote the songs but it was Alan that made them come to life. Without Alan Wilder DM never would have sounded this great. In my world that means that Alan Wilder is the Co Writer to the songs. It is in the studio the songs comes to life. Songs change in studio and can become a totally different song than when it first was created. Songs can be bits and pieces that later comes to life in a studio. Alan Wilders music skills is very Underrated. I say this again. Without him DM never would have sold 100+ millions of records. That's a fact. I Salute Alan Wilder. A Music Genius.

[@FolkloreNegro]

This is wisdom.

[@Anakidris101]

Totally agree with you. Since he left, DM has never been the same. ( even if I think Ultra was very good, in the spirit of Alan's work ). We miss him si much since.

[@joycejballesta4860]

❤❤❤

[@TheTimHall]

Alan definitely needs a co-writing credit on everything he touched. In some cases he took quite ordinary songs and turned them into classics. I know some of the DM fans will not like to hear that, but if you read the lyrics of some of the songs they are kind-of basic. That's not a bad thing. Basic songs can be catchy and cool. What makes these songs stand out is the whole universe Alan Wilder created for them to live in. Add in some Dave Gahan attitude and you have greatness. The lyrics and basic melody are only one part of the whole package, and I totally understand Alan Wilder being upset by the situation. Add in that Fletch is being paid for being Martin's mate, and you have a recipe for dissatisfaction...

[@allrequiredfields]

You are absolutely dead-on. It is so blatantly fucking obvious just how massive his contribution was when he left the band. I've always said the material after he'd left sounded like they were missing a producer entirely. All of those wicked stacked, tertiary melodies and percussive textures that subconsciously added an immeasurable depth to the songs left a massive hole in their absence. Sure, if you're not a musician, it might not make sense, because the vocal melodies and basic song structures didn't change much, but in his absence, the songs felt like cars being sent out of the factory without paint or windows - they all just felt like they were missing SOMETHING. I actually never realized this until someone had told me he'd quit the band, years after I'd stopped listening to them. The material just wasn't nearly as good, and then I knew why. It's so incredibly frustrating too, because it's fucking obvious the band cannot ever be what they were without him - and I'd be first in line to see them if he was invited back... but those stupid fucking egos, always fucking everything up...

[@saldanapete10]

Alan is a genius. DM was never the same after he left. Very sad. Imagine all of the great songs they would have made had he not left.

[@dodgyg3697]

They did some great ones anyway.

[@markusm6575]

​@@dodgyg3697Aber nur ein paar wenige. Es hätten viel mehr sein können.

[@krysthofkonrad3260]

@@dodgyg3697 No, IMO they only had successful ones. That is not the same as good or even great ones.

[@owlmuso]

I agree 100%

[@Albert-the-Astro]

I agree, they had some ok stuff after Alan. But they were never the same power house.

[@maxseba]

Alan was the Depeche Mode sound. No excuses! He created it working hard in the recording studio. Every DM fan of the golden age agrees with that.

[@dickbuffman594]

Actually talked to him after a show in dallas while he was chilling waiting for the crew to empty out the venue in his tourbus....I was just walking back to where the car was parked and happened to notice this person that was talking to a few people from inside of the bus, so I went to go and see what was happening, and I swear to you it was Alan Wilder and he was just acknowledging that he knew we were out there and he thanked us for coming, he was so nice , I even asked him if I could shake his hand and he never hesitated he just simply did it while smiling right at me and it was so cool because as he shook my hand he was pulling the window back closed, I could tell he was worn out from the performance.....I was in heaven,,,,I had just actually touched Alan WILDER!!!! I haven't ever really talked about this incident because I wasn't with anyone I know personally, so I never tried to convince them that it actually happened, because I had no solid proof of any kind....but it was like 1993 or summer tour 94 don't remember which tour if it was faith and devotion or the 94

[@alexandergrafvonrothenstein]

So true @Massimo 🍀🙏

[@tiagobarros5666]

Agree

[@cr4723]

The sound came from Daniel Miller and Gareth Jones. Especially the metal workshop sound in the 80s.

[@RickGraham]

As a massive fan of DM, I want to know why I love specific songs so much. Probably because of the input of Alan Wilder more than anything else.

[@7goldglamour777]

Yes, same here.

[@uwi2]

Martin is the brain, Dave is the voice of the band.... while Alan..... he was the soul. And will always the soul of Depeche Mode

[@thejebusite]

...and Fletch is the business man that allowed them all to get rich.

[@liquid-vinyl-audio]

You think so for real ? Well.....I don´t. DM (with Alan) forever anyway ;)

[@womba68]

@@thejebusite i think you're thinking of daniel miller

[@thejebusite]

@@womba68 no, Daniel Miller focused on mute records, but Andy focused on Depeche Mode. You see a glimpse of that in the film 101. Andy was an accountant before he became what he is today. Without Andy, they would not have made their millions.... He is a smart guy just not very musical...

[@womba68]

@@thejebusite accountants don't make people money. they count their money for them then take a chunk of it. plus i think you're exaggerating the role of a 17/18 year old clerk straight out of college.

[@divnaindija24]

Just by hearing Alan's letter, you can feel how punctual, sensitive and classy he was and is. Also, just by seeing these pictures from 1993, you can say how Alan was unhappy and uncomfortable in the band or, better to say, in his own skin by that time. When it is turned into torture and disrespect, love isn't love anymore, and friendship isn't friendship anymore. There's no amount of money and fame that could cover it oh heal it. I love DM, and I see departure of Alan Wilder like a huge loss, that could be compared, for me at least, as Metallica loosing brilliant Cliff Burton. Alan gave some kind of space, depth and edge into the DM-sound, so I think that that's is that missing piece of the puzzle there. Anyhow, I understand and support his decision to leave. It was tough, hard and painful thing to do, but, sometimes, you just have to do it, you just need to act, to say it. And he did it in the best way possible! So, my congrats to the great gentleman and ingenious musician! Thank you Nick, so much, for the video, story and the opportunity to give comment on it! May God bless you and all the best in your future work! :)))) All my greeting for all true, real and honest DM-fans here and all over the world! Dusan!

[@TecladistadoYoutubeRivaLima]

Hello, I as a fan of Depeche Mode, I have some considerations to make on the subject. I am a professional musician, I am a keyboardist and programmer, and I had a Depeche Mode cover band in my country, and unfortunately because of the difficult logistics, I and the other members, we live in different and far-flung cities, and I couldn't go on, because the when they were going to hire us for a performance, it made it really expensive and difficult, so I decided to abandon my former bandmates. As for Alan, I can say that yes, DM's sonority changed drastically after his departure ... I usually say that there are 2 DMs, the before and after Alan Wilder. Alan was the sound wizard, a sampler expert, and he loved to stay in the studio, as he always said 'Martin left, Dave disappeared, and Andy took care of his own interests'. He even said in the documentary SOFAD, that if it were just for Martin, the songs would only have the DEMO format, and that he and Flood would stay in the studio fixing things. And yes, I would very much like Alan to return to the DM. That Somebody performance, at the Royal Albert Hall, when he came by surprise, we see there how much affection the fans still have for Alan. And recently, the DM received the recognition, of being in the Hall of Fame, and Dave thanked with affection everything that Alan did for the band, and even won the clapping (always clapping) of Andy. Do you want to know what Alan Wilder would be like at DM recently? Just look for the remix he made of In chains, and let's get the idea of ​​the density that his arrangements gave DM again, just spectacular, and of course, there is a stupid portion of DM fans, who don’t know the difference in the sound that Alan gave to the band, and don’t know the difference in the band after he left ... these, we ignore...Alan gave Martin's lyrics and Dave's voice the necessary magic and sounds that made us travel without leaving home.

[@lindahandley5267]

That was a great analysis!

[@gwenstaff]

wow... it's so true..

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

Dave: Good Voice Martin: Good Lyrics Alan: Good Sounds Andrew: Good Morning

[@infindebula]

Alan: Good Riddance!

[@Mr11Worcester]

KRAFTWERK2K6 Loooooool, I did laugh.

[@mikekklau]

Haha

[@wingmainful]

Fletch admitted in the 101 film that he just "Bummed around".

[@vidaamoryrisa1493]

jajajaaj

[@scotiavelo1405]

I guess he left as the Balance wasn’t right :)

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

LOL get outa here with your blasphemous rumors! xD

[@andrewfelcey5593]

Boom,

[@egregiousqueef7781]

but his Recoil stuff is fantastic, interesting guests on each album

[@Atombender]

Alan leaving the band was only a question of time.

[@glezpik]

Alan the perfectionist, Alan the quality geek, Alan the architect, Alan the detail seeker.

[@emmalocatelli5831]

I think since Alan Wilder's departure the band has been releasing great singles but never a truly great album. Alan Wilder was a visionary artist who was able to see all the incredible potential hidden in Martin Gore's songs. I still hope he will come back eventually as a producer although I do know it's quite unlikely.

[@brody5211]

Do you count hole to feed as a great single !

[@chirpywiggins5796]

Yep the odd good single but mediocre albums and then Spirit which I thought was dreadful.

[@Theodora-ik1xy]

Yes, everything is true, but "Only When I Lose Myself" is completely as if Alan was involved. kzbin.info/www/bejne/omSYia2LeZ16fbc

[@purrbabies6926]

Maybe Alan will come back when Fletcher leaves

[@Zontar82]

indeed, everything after Ultra (or evenExciter) sounds dull, mediocre and amateurish

[@SK-ql3yf]

Basically, Alan was the only adult in the room. DM lost their essence when Alan left. Dear Alan, you are my favorite DM member.

[@RichardTheBigBunny]

All evidence does point to that, doesn't it?

[@marguskiis7711]

Heavy drinking adult

[@alcorona8143]

Yes,!! It's like Brian Jones to the stones

[@beepst]

Ultra and Playing The Angel are pretty solid records.

[@1978pq]

@@beepst Yes. I ignored Playing the Angel until about a month ago. Wow. Great album. I am shocked at how much I like it and am upset I slept on it for all these years. Ultra I also like way more than I originally thought.

[@depechdm]

I have known this since Alan's departure. Depeche Mode's sound would never be the same without Alan. Their best albums were created under his clock and all DM's fans knew he was not being recognized enough for his work or creativity. We all noticed that in the photos and videos, he was always in the back, so the best thing he could have done was to - "Leave in Silence!"

[@lindahandley5267]

I thought about that too. You can almost see it in his face in the pics. He was putting forth so much effort and didn't feel appreciated. It's a shame it had to go that way.

[@joealicea3744]

Alan Wilder gave DM its signature sound, which skyrocketed the band's popularity. DM has not been the same without Alan's input.

[@moemode]

Since alan left , depeche wasn't the same for me. I think Ego's within depeche mode won't allow alan to return .Martin was quoted as saying about alan returning , "its something we dont talk about".. Well martin , maybe it's time you should . .Anyway , I Love his recoil project . And the work he did on the talk talk tribute album.alan is an Amazing talented genius and a gent . And is sorely missed by DM fans like myself.

[@revacohen]

Alan himself said he didn't want to return. And since he's been out since 1995, it's no question that he won't go back.

[@depechem0demusic]

@@revacohen won’t go back yet he played with them at the royal Albert hall-I think Martin would welcome him back with open arms but Dave and the clapper fletch would block that from happening

[@FavreianVengeance]

"Egos" is s very nice way of saying greed.

[@verucasalt9182]

@@depechem0demusicthe clapper bit the dust .

[@Lam007]

Thank you Alan Wilder. Your contribution to DM's music has had immeasurable effect on so many of us fans around the world. I hope this comment finds you somewhere sometime when you need to hear it most. So many of those songs we cherish that have been touched by you will live on forever for generations to come. I take solace in this fact and celebrate you every time I listen to your music. In the end, we understand why you left. But all know that the rest of DM and the world suffer well for it.

[@junebaby166]

Thank you for your beautiful words. I quite often think I wish Alan would read at least some of what his fans say about him in the comments sections and that he takes consolation in the love and appreciation that they bring across. And although it's unlikely that he reads comments on KZbin I hope he knows how much he still means (and always will) to any true Depeche Mode fan. Alan will always be my favourite member of Depeche Mode and I've been somewhat heartbroken since the day he left. I hope that whatever he does with his life now makes him happy and fulfilled. Nobody deserves it more than him.

[@LuckyFlesh]

Alan turned Martin's ideas into actual, World class songs.

[@foodog777]

But Alan Wilder didn’t write the songs that make the whole world sing. Without Martin’s great songs there would be no cult of Alan Wilder.

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

Mike Ratherson Well if Martin had been the frontman/lead singer and they didn’t have Dave they never would have gotten anywhere either. My point being that the greatness of Depeche Mode is the collaboration of Alan, Dave and Martin. Take out any of those three and the music would never have been as incredible as it was, just as it hasn’t since Alan left. Yes, of course Martin deserves the bulk of the credit if you want to get into that, as it all starts with the songwriting. No one in the world is saying they wish Martin had left instead of Alan (but I’m sure most would choose Alan over Fletch lol).

[@AvalonTracks]

@@foodog777 Just consider the last DM albums, all Gore songs, ZERO ANTHEMS. But remember the times with Alan, glorious times of unforgetable anthems that made history.

[@foodog777]

Avalon Tracks Anthems imply massive sing along choruses which Martin wrote. There is no doubt that there would be no Depeche Mode as we know it without Martin. Dave’s frontman abilities are crucial. Alan’s arranging and production contributions were crucial at DM’s height. But Ultra has anthems that Alan had nothing to do with such as “Barrel of a Gun”, “It’s No Good”, “Home” and “Useless”. Their ability to write anthems diminished after ‘Ultra’ for sure but so did U2’s after 2004 with all their original members intact. It has been 25 years since Alan quit. They had a great run with Alan but Alan has done nothing of commercial significance since. If you were saying DM is no longer commercially viable hold the same standard as Alan please. Off the top of my head 2005’s “Precious” is a great anthem that Alan also had no part of. I’m not negating Alan’s stellar contribution but DM have soldiered on for 25 years successfully without him. I saw DM for the only time in 2017 and they were stellar.

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

Mike Ratherson Recoil is dope. And if you’re about to say “what kind of mainstream success has Recoil even had?” That is not what Recoil is about- it’s Alan making NON-pop music. Also he wanted to focus on his family. To you that may mean “nothing of significance”. What a rude and needlessly venomous thing to say.

[@smiler6284]

Fantastic insight into Alan’s departure from Depeche mode .He added something very special to the songs for the time he was in the band . Something that has been lost since he left

[@ag3ntorange164]

I followed Alan and his Recoil project after he left the band. His incredible 2007 album 'subHuman' was sadly his last. He announced that he had not made any money from it. Since then I have only watched him become more bitter and disillusioned about the music business. It's incredibly sad to me that such an amazing musician has apparently given up for good. And there is still so much great music he could make for us...

[@thomasley7178]

That's one of the reasons I'm a little disappointed in him. I really liked Recoil's second album Bloodline. And frankly, I don't think the following albums, while all decent, some even great, reached that level again. Depeche Mode on the other hand proved the test of time, still running strong. I think the contrast is quite stark. And sometimes I think that Alan and all his fans are stuck in 1995. It's now almost thirty years later. DM has moved on, so should we. Wilder's impact on DM from 1982 to 1993 is obvious. But it now seems that without Gore and/or Gahan there was always something missing in Wilder's work.

[@CoventGardenbeats]

@@thomasley7178I think you’re wrong about Alans fans being stuck in 1995.. You have no idea how much more music learning there’s in a Recoil album and much more from his period in D.M. Alan continues to master produce other records as well..

[@guttersnippeesmithers3905]

Where is he now ????????

[@PetersPianoShoppe]

@@thomasley7178 There is equally something missing in DM's work post SOFAD. It's clear the alchemy was mutually beneficial.

[@thomasley7178]

@@PetersPianoShoppe Oh, I'm sure post SOFAD albums would have greatly profited from Wilder's inputs. But I just don't think they lack essential DM vibes as they are. I mean Daniel Miller isn't producing their stuff either and yet they manage to put out legendary works since MFTM. If we're honest DM always had two things going for them: Martin's songs and Dave's voice and charisma. In latter years Dave even manages to come up with songs that rival Martin's. Something Alan only managed once, I think ("If you want").

[@mattidohmeier5260]

The Sound of DM is not the same anymore since Mr. Wilder left..

[@renspecs]

I agree. Wilder added an upbeat feel that had our souls dancing. A very poetic sound to his input. Now, it's just one dimensional, dull, repetitive. Today's DM sounds spooky and cloudy with a lot of dark moaning. Not a fan.

[@Danimal77]

@@renspecs Have you ever listed to the Black Celebration album? That entire album was spooky with a lot of dark moaning as you put it.

[@renspecs]

@@Danimal77 Black Celebration is DM's greatest work if you ask me. The terms spooky and moaning are just my personal perception as far as the mood goes. Black Celebration, to me, was not spooky and moaning at all. It was very cozy. The melodies of Black Celebration take me to a warm cozy place. Like being in a cabin in the mountains wrapped in a blanket in front of a warm fire.

[@ianabreu3360]

​@@Danimal77 are you crazy? Black Celebration is they second masterpiece and the 4th best DM album... an amazing industrial, dark wave and depressive sound from 34y ago, how can you compare all that atmosphere with albums like, playing the angel, delta machine and spirtis? The DM died with Alan departure, after SOFAD their become a totaly diferent band!

[@Zontar82]

indeed. Ultra is the only sans -Wilder album i still love, after that only mediocre albums

[@SharLeeRV]

Thumbs up if you want another Depeche Mode album with Alan Wilder (Now more than ever after Andy’s tragedy)

[@robtriton]

Yes!

[@platetec4636]

I fell in love with Depeche Mode in 1981 with the release of New Life and followed them ever since. Flood and Dave Bascombe have both said of Alan that He was the uncredited producer of MFTH and Violator. After the vacuum Alan left they had to have three people to not replace Alan but do his usual workload on producing/sound creation/arrangement/playing, they made Ultra in the same ways they had Violator and SOFAD but after not touring Ultra the year off took them to the Singles Tour. Enter A Keyboard player who barely looked at the sheet music, as well and not being too fused about how accurate the samples are to the originals and don't even get me started on the Drummer. When I saw them in 2017 at The Olympic Stadium, World In My Eyes had so much over drumming that it just didn't sit right with me. Alan was the soundscape artist who brought Martin's wonderful songs to not just the next level but something truly groundbreaking. Just listen to the Recoil atmospherics and you have an idea of what Alan brought to the table.

[@qwer8907]

Seems like he done the job that eno done for u2

[@anhl5091]

you are ABSOULTELY correct regarding the drummer and his overcompensating drums. feels like he wants to be front and center too often and it detracts from the live performance. I really did NOT like his drumming in some of the Enjoy the Silence live performances. OVERBEARING is the word.

[@cdpetee]

I admit it, I cried when i found out that Alan left the band. Wasn't happy with his decision, but I understood why and respected it. Pretty sure we've all had jobs where one person seems to handle way more than their fair share of the workload and others loaf about yet everyone gets paid the same. You can tolerate that situation only for so long before you leave.

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

Yes, exactly that.... we all have a breaking point

[@davidgahan-ks5jh]

Exactly my case at work right noe

[@sonofhibbs4425]

Yup yup!

[@anthonya2479]

Cried when he left the band? Son you got way bigger problems.

[@leonstraatman1857]

As a fan since 1983 i have to say: Alan wilder is a synth wizzard,a pure gentleman and a musical master mind....his decision to leave the band is a big loss FOREVER.🥺

[@konstantinoskalessis1501]

Alan was the soul of the band.. A sensitive guy, who felt like loneless. Unfortonally never had the career he could have.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

I love your analysis of why Alan Wilder left the band. I've always thought the same things. It's so sad AW left and I hope he comes back. DM is not the same without him.

[@lindahandley5267]

They've all matured mentally and it would be great for them to sit down and have a talk. I watched a interview with Alan, as the interviewer played some clips from different artists music. When he played a couple of clips from his time in DM, I thought I caught a glimpse of regret in his eyes. It would be so wonderful if he could forgive and forget...especially with the sound they created together.😪

[@nicolaetomus3712]

Alan was the sonic architect of the real DM. So sad he left, he took his special sound with him.

[@yippie6862]

Andy McCluskey (from OMD) quote, "There was Martin who wrote the songs. There was Alan who was the musician who could really play and sort of produce, and really hold it all together. There was Dave, just shut up and sing Dave Gahan. Then there was Andy and it was like what does Andy do? Then we realized that he's kind of the manager really. When you could sneak up on him behind stage you could realize that he wasn't really playing anything on stage. We used to joke about it. You're not really playing the keyboard are you? You're the manager you're playing the cash register. You've got an accounting machine. Put your hands up and clap."

[@etainafuzz]

I hadn't heard this quote before from Andy. I mean...he's not wrong :)

[@verucasalt9182]

@@etainafuzzis in video.

[@Kamiknicks]

I remember reflecting on the songscapes of DM when I was 16 and all those mysterious sounds in the back of the main soundscape. Not aware it was the work of one person: Alan. I was in awe with lyrics but transported to another world by the sounds. Only much later did i realise that Alan had been the man behind this magical engineering. Alan I salute you. RESPECT

[@thephoenix3155]

Alan was always the best member of DM. I love his Recoil project too!

[@kékédesplages-d6d]

I just think he waited a long time for a "thank you" he never had from the others. At least fans can say it. So if you read that comment ? Thank you Mister allan Wilder, from the botom of my heart. I will probably never meet you irl, but if i could, i would bow down to you with much respect !

[@faithnomore101]

Nicolas DUBOS ill Second that. Alan was the real Deal.

[@Simlescloset]

Well he should feel validated now as he was listed as a member of the band for their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction!

[@jansenwilder1335]

When I heard Alan's remix version of In Chains, it blew me away during the last 2 mins of the track, that acoustic drum pattern and electro guitar made the track stand out compared with the album version. Those who heard ' In Chains ' remix will know what Alan brings into a song.

[@ulrichschwarz110]

Indeed. Was listening to the remix right now and I am blown away. Sounds of the universe was a shame....trivial, stupid stuff (except Come back) but Allans remix is an example how it could have been.

[@Judy-1989]

Happy 64th Wilder! 💖 Hoping this finds you truly happy & in good health. After all, you deserve the very best. Make a wish. 🌠

[@luckystriker7489]

I didn't start liking DM until Alan joined. I tried to get into the Vince Clarke era but it's too bubblegum for my taste. When Alan left I sort of lost interest in the band.

[@Danimal77]

There was only 1 album with Vince Clarke. You make it sound like Alan joined the band years after Depeche Mode formed. They released their first album with Vince in late 1981 and Alan joined in early 1982.

[@sonofhibbs4425]

Bubblegum is a good way of putting it. The songs on Speak and Spell, though, that were written by Gore gave a hint of future DM. Ultra wasn’t bad, but I’ve not renewed my “fan status” since Alan left. It’s like having the recipe changed by ingredient omission on your favorite goodie... why bother? It’s not the same.

[@maxshea4762]

I love Speak & Spell. It was bubble gum as fine art! Some of Erasure's music is too treacly for me, though.

[@JassBo83]

I'm actually in the other boat. I always knew about DM but I didn't really get into them until 2001. To me he's not missed. I like a lot of the older works but as someone who studied music production I can say that their sound has become a lot more mature and sophisticated. Not sure if it's just the times we're in or the fact that he's gone. I love their music and their history regardless.

[@revacohen]

Same with me. He was the reason the group's music sounded so good, and that's not the case anymore. I stopped listening to him after he left.

[@jonstefanik9400]

The Trio of Depeche Mode after Alan still had success but never the same when Alan left. I don't know where Depeche Mode is going now since today we lost Fletch. Please Alan come back. At least for some tribute shows. R.I.P. Andrew Fletcher 😢💔

[@shahryartaherkhani5299]

Excellent perspective, exellent view about Alan Wilder. He was truly an architect of Deptche Mode band in terms of sounding, creative music atmospher, his excellent taste on sound enginerring, music production, and Vocal, Keyboards. He was the best man for aproving the final mix & mastering knowledge before production.

[@BrianKenney]

I agree with this. The band never quite reached the same heights without Alan. I always thought his approach to sound design is what gave them their magic.

[@bondbug73]

It's been seriously down hill for DM since Alan Wilder left. Comparing their output since it really shows that Fletch's clapping can't save them.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Its heartbreaking to think AW is no longer in the band. I was fortunate enough to see DM when the mighty Wilder was still present. It was glorious, beautiful and stunningly gorgeous. Those 2 shows in 1993 and '94 were life changing. As much as it pains me to say this, without the maestro at the helm musically, DM are no longer a force to be reckoned with. I will always love DM but this band needs Alan Wilder to restart that magic we love so much.

[@foodog777]

ULTRA was their last great album. U2 hasn’t written a memorable song since 2004 with all their original members. Both are basically touring great touring acts that rely on their back catalog. Every band eventually goes downhill in their creative zeitgeist. Name a band that hasn’t.

[@sheer2waist637]

Mike Ratherson COLDPLAY haven’t gone downhill they have progressed very nicely thank you, also some solo artists get better over the years...David Knopfler singer songwriter who left Dire Straits after the first 2 albums because his brother Mark was too controlling and David couldn’t get any of his songs on an album, so he went solo and has made 13 studio albums, from his 6th album the songs became more organic gone were the synths and programmed drum machines In came nice acoustic wholesome songs that shined a new sense of quality still to this day 👍😀👍

[@PSYCH0N4VT]

For me, ULTRA was extremely good, I also liked Exciter and Playing the Angel but after that they just lost it, all 3 albums after that was just shallow "lets make something because we have to". Even watching their show live 2 years ago I couldn't believe how boring it was, it looked like they are bored themselves repeating the same thing all over again. Just a mechanic professional clinically precise show but with no emotion in it.

[@trevorrandom]

Absolutely

[@BrownsburgKevin]

I was at the last show he played with the band. They played and sounded fantastic.

[@bryan1234smith]

Me too...Indy.

[@richardcully1139]

O

[@galenvs5060]

Depeche Mode without Alan is in Demo Mode. Sad but true

[@stanislav182000]

He definitely made them sound powerful and epic! Their sound became lightweight after he gone, but I believe Martin wanted DM to have light weight sound.

[@nicolaszyx3120]

No

[@michaelkratzke6571]

DM Still Excist Without Alan Wilder

[@stanislav182000]

@@michaelkratzke6571 of course they exist, and the they can sell out their concerts, but I still listen to their 80-s and 90-s albums, and know the lyrics of those songs by heart. But the last albums, I don't even remember the titles of the songs. Course there is nothing special. DM reached that level, when they can produce anything and people will be happy, because it is new DM album and there will be new tour. I am not against DM, it is just I miss Alan's crafthip in DM music. Alan himself without DM is left in the shade, and that's not right as well. They were good when they were together. That's my point.

[@galenvs5060]

@@michaelkratzke6571 Yes, they exist, but they paid a high price

[@zibiskot5122]

It’s never too late for Reunion..! Stronger together-always..! Love DM..!👍

[@cecilewhite1897]

The genius Alan was never appreciated. I think that Dave appreciated Alan and regretted that he didn’t let him know he was more behind him.

[@annier895]

Yeah that’s too bad. Dave was too far into drugs to do anything

[@shanebengel4497]

Alan made Depeche Mode. I have listened to DM songs and you can clearly see the rise and fall of DM with him arriving and leaving. Andy blows as a member. He’s the nerd that hangs out with real musicians.

[@robcourtney1997]

Alan represents a typical work environment. There are the ones who prop up the company without recognition and the shirkers get the glory.

[@tmax7]

Alan is a Genius!!!!

[@t8283287]

No he isn't

[@lukabarett]

@@t8283287 yes he is

[@t8283287]

@@lukabarett no he isn't.....

[@lukabarett]

@@t8283287 umm yes he is...

[@t8283287]

@@lukabarett no he isn't

[@richardrobertchapinii1022]

During COVID, I've had this enlightenment with my favorite band. Several times a week I listen to In Your Memory, Fools, and My Joy. I've been very fortunate to see every one of their tours since 1985. I've only known DM with Alan Wilder since his contributions starting with A Broken Frame. Like a lot of people have said.He was the sound of the group. You never want to acknowledge the bad egos of your favorite group, but it always seem apparent. I was deeply sad when he left the band and feared for their future, just like everyone else. However, the band moved on. To this day, Ultra is one of my favorite releases. Even though it took more musicians to replace what Alan, himself could do. I feel the journey of Depeche Mode is coming to an end. Delta Machine and Spirit, in my opinion, didn't make a great impact. So I will say, for the final swan song of Depeche Mode's career, is to reunite with Alan and create an amazing sound that the band and true fans will feel proud of. I know that's asking a lot, but it's my pipe dream. I will never forget this band until the day I die.

[@Leszkoo74]

👍👍👍

[@patricinha3467]

The real DM with Alan Wilder 🎹

[@modeduran9819]

true

[@angelafranzoni8013]

I am agreed.

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

@Patricia 1978: Marcie is my favorite of the Peanuts gang.

[@patricinha3467]

@@KRAFTWERK2K6 灬º‿º灬)♡

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

@@patricinha3467 (▰˘◡˘▰)💖

[@Rondo2ooo]

Alan remixed a post-Alan DM song and it suddenly sounded like it should be. That moment it became evident that he was indeed the heart of their sound. The salt.

[@plechaim]

Which song was that

[@Rondo2ooo]

@@plechaim "In Chains". To me Alan's remix makes it sound like from Songs of Faith and Devotion.

[@Becker67]

Just watched the Vimeo video after reading some remarks here as I hadn't seen it. What struck me the most was the contrast between Dave and Fletcher. Dave was very lucky to escape his own torments and shows obvious remorse about Alan's departure. Dave also highlighted the paranoia between Martin and Fletcher which he never got about their feeling Alan was 'taking over'. PmSl. Taking over!!! If it hadn't been for Alan they would never have reached the heights they did. The Fletcher comment was revealing also. He didn't want to do another album with Alan. Considering his 'abilities' whatever they may be, I thought this was the most disrespectful thing I have ever heard. If Dave hadn't been as far out of his head as he had been then maybe things could have been different. But it sounds to me that Fletcher and Gore were at him well before he decided to leave. Such a shame. I suppose I tolerated Fletcher for years really. As a keyboard player myself I know for a fact just how little Fletcher did on stage purely from observation alone. Zero respect for him now.

[@alejandromorales8715]

I have less than respect for him. He's a disgusting parasite and it's pretty obvious he made himself indispensable for Martin and took advantage of it. Happens all the time in politics.

[@thetedster7812]

I'd have loved a job share with Fletch. He's worth $60m dollars... Alan was and is an artist, an architect of sound, I can only think where his talent could have taken the group. A lovely modest and thoughtful guy from his interviews too.

[@wattage2007]

Indeed. If Fletch hadn't even showed up to the studio for the entire recording and mixing of an album, no one would even notice.

[@user-pn9po6bc3v]

I remember an interview, years after Alan had left, where Fletch said something about Alan and then said (paraphrasing) “I don’t think Alan even has any friends, to be honest”. It just sounded so petty and acrimonious of him and I immediately disliked him even more. Also, he’s always made the band look less cool from a purely visual standpoint. He always looked like a stiff shirted money guy and dressed like someone’s dad.

[@jaysterling26]

All the replies might & probably do have some merit , but I think some key points are missing ( from what I've read). That is MG & Fletch were friends before the band forming. As such during internal debates Fletch would support MG. As has been said & known, his musical input has not matched that of the rest of DM and so no wonder such a situation would make AW leave . The hassle AW endured is ironic as his suggestion made 'enjoy the silence' their biggest hit ( I wonder how the royalties are shared?). As DM didn't have a manager Fletch took over the financial work of DM.

[@scottfree2248]

Alan was the fuel that allowed Depeche Mode to Rocket to incredible heights.🚀

[@saynomore9604]

We all know from our workplaces that there are always hard workers, averages and passengers in the team. Hard workers are not blind, they are aware of the situation and they can only keep working silently up to a certain level. You either recognize them proactively or they start asking for a praise themselves. The issue is that they deserve extra credit both verbally and financially. Pay rise is inevitable or they set their deadlines. Their moral character doesnt allow them to slow down and to start underperforming. They are top guys until the last minute. This is Alan, you cant change it. He will never come back because he carries more emotional memories than the rest. They were not aware of hurting him so they dont recall.

[@SyntheticFilms]

Well said.

[@michaelwhite2600]

I’m a fan from Speak and Spell to Violator only. I’m not the only fan of Depeche Mode with that time frame. For fans like me, they became darker and darker and the music didn’t just evolve, it changed. Drugs destroy everything. I can’t blame him for leaving that toxic environment. Sad. They have never been the same to me after violator. Thank you for this! I always wondered why they lost me.

[@KuroMicra]

Totally get this! Alan created their sound, interpreting Martin’s lyrics. The very fact that Enjoy the Silence was transformed from a ballad to a stomping archetype of the DM sound.

[@dejanvojnic621]

I enjoy reading most of your comments.....and every on off you are right.....Alan was the balance for this group....he was always couple 100 years ahead...I hope you understand..))

[@juniorlayout936]

HI...greetings from Brazil. I loved this video and his comments. I agree with each words that you say. The best DM albuns are made before Alan leave the band.

[@michal1242]

I agree 100% to you sir. Peak was before Alan left. BR Michal

[@danielcunha1327]

Thanks for this video. Team work makes the dream work. The recipe combination of Dave, Martin and Alan is the reason DM created great songs and successful albums. Exciter, Playing the Angel were good albums but I imagine they would have been better with Alan’s involvement. It’s understandable that a band wants to evolve and expand their musical creativity and working with different producers and there have been a couple of good singles however the last few albums are just not capturing and missing the DM essence that Alan brought into their songs. I really hope DM see if for what it is and come to the realization that together they are a winning formula. Hopefully they can set aside the egos and recollaborate to produce the incredible music DM fans love.

[@anafindlay1696]

TBH I haven't bought a Depeche Mode record since Alan left, he can never be replaced because Alan was the genius behind their unique sound! I saw Depeche Mode 3 times while Alan Wilder was still in the band,The Devotion tour was outstanding!!

[@bonorbitz]

That's too bad because they still make good music, though not at the level when Wilder was with them.

[@neuromatiker]

As a collector I buy them all... But I never play them the ones that came after SOFAD. It was their last album in my book.

[@darbycrash1931]

Wow that is an eye opening and revealing story. Good for Alan Wilder he did right. It's a shame how money seems to ruin relations.

[@trevorrandom]

Image if Alan came back for a new album and a tour...

[@EsromFF]

Yes.......we can but dream

[@TheSdzisuaf]

Wouldn't want that. Would love Alan and Martin collaboration. Dave lost his voice for drugs and booze. Sorry. Not going to mention clapping dude, duh.

[@thundergodthor6285]

Nope, it's over and he enjoys the silence

[@bicyclist2]

That would be great. I like the Starbucks parody. Thanks.

[@redredvelvet]

I’m 28 and came across Depeche Mode mostly due to my older cousins (17 y older than me) being huge fans. Playing The Angel came out when I was 12 or 13 so it’s the first album release I can remember. When I began to really pay attention to their discography and how their sound had evolved through the years, I kinda orbited towards the “Alan era” stuff and Ultra without really thinking about it or knowing much about them or their history as a band until more recently. So the fact that, after all this time, I actually preferred those albums without any kind of bias speaks volumes of Alan’s work with DM in my opinion, and honestly it makes me a bit sad I wasn’t alive back then to see it. Loved the video, thank you :)

[@isgodreal1337]

Cool fact xD I'm 24 and I've been listening to DM since I was born, thanks to my father.

[@3aw77]

Everything counts in large amounts

[@dreww1818]

Great Video! Appreciate the time you put in to make this. I really enjoyed it.!

[@Usuf-Mr]

Thank you man for this video. Alan Wilder was the soul & sound of Depeche Mode. Martin was the heart and Dave was the face.A body without a soul or heart will end up dead..

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

And Fletch was..... the accountant, counting all the cash.

[@TheSdzisuaf]

@@WorldInMyEyes1 STEALING

[@TheDjnauj]

I am Depeche Mode follower since 1983. I would like to thank you for your video, very Educational. I miss the Depeche Mode that Alan wilder used to produce music for. the DM today lacks that certain sound that we all loved.

[@stephendiaz2033]

I agree with your assessment 100%! Violator was it for me! That album blew my freaking mind as a kid! The Violator Rose is the only tattoo of a band I have on me! I wish Alan would come back for a world tour one more time so I can see them together live!

[@darrenl.woodward9168]

Some great comments guys...good insight,Sir....for me..as an avid devoted life-long fan...I just drifted...or they did from me after Ultra...I miss how they used to make me feel...thanks for the music either way boys...no hard feelings..had some killer times to your beautiful work.X

[@TazGoldstein]

Fascinating video! I’ve always wondered why I fell out of love with DM around the Ultra days. I felt the band’s sound I had previously loved had changed into something I actively disliked. But up until now, I never knew why. Thanks for the history lesson!

[@tannermcfly1618]

Great insights, thanks you. Loved this band since I was 13, I’m now 48. There is no doubt that the band lost a huge chunk of creativity and soul when Alan left. They would never be the same but proved they could weather the storm of life and bounce back, albeit in a slightly different tone. Still magnificent. DM4Life!

[@joegarcia4771]

Thank you for this video. It answed some questions I had for over 20 years.

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lisaknuth2614]

@@WorldInMyEyes1 Great, informative video! Thank you for creating a channel devoted to Depeche Mode...Love it!! ❤

[@leisiquick5298]

Alan was (and still is) a really a great musician, a pro. I was hoping he could have a better career, in his solo projects (Recoil) and as a producer. He deserved much more in the second part of his artistic life. As a huge DM fan, I was truly shocked back in 1995 when he announced his decision to leave the band. I really thought this would be the end of my favorite band... but 25 years later they still rock and move me. I appreciate Dave being more involved in songwriting. I will not compare 80-90s sound with what they are doing now. World has changed, Music industry has changed, recording and producing processes are completely different nowadays. That’s life. I m grateful that my favouvrite band is still here and i still look forward to each new album of them ❤️

[@jakubpetricek]

Check interviews with Alan Wilder from late 80´s/ early 90´s. In Bong (fan club magazine) he was asked in cca 1989 what he plans to do in 10 years time. And Alan was clear as water. He said that he hoped he would be making music outside Depeche Mode. Can´t remember the exact words but he said he hoped he would make music without commercial pressure. Many times Alan said he couldn´t see himself as a pop band member by the age of 40.

[@IncApu2025]

Great stuff dude. Thanks a lot. Thumbs-up and a new subscriber from Lima, Peru ( country of Paddington bear)

[@rednax3333]

Excellent video! I couldn’t agree more. I’ve been an immense fan of DM since 1987 and vividly recall thinking these exact points: about Alan and the obvious workload he carried against what he was likely being paid, how he QUITE obviously handled the lion’s share of playing on tour (you only need to watch 101 to see that!), and finally about how he had apparently crafted that “exquisitely controlled atmosphere“ that became the trademark sound of a DM album at their Violator heights. Alan was an immense blessing to the group and I had also doubted they’d be able to continue without him. But I also agree they’ve produced some fantastic work since, absolutely! (Broken ❤️) I do wish that they’d all be able to work together again some day though. Then we’d ALL win! 👍😎

[@1stMarDiv4341]

Words cannot adequately describe how much Depeche Mode means to me. I was born in 1983, and my first CD at 11 was Some Great Reward. Being your typical depressed middle school kid, the album deeply resonated with me. I've seen them live four times as an adult, and as much as I still love them, they simply have not been the same since Wilder left. He really was the architect of their signature sound.

[@smooth111012]

They are missing the great sound from mr Wilder

[@FichenScheiss1]

You are right on Nick. Once Alan left, the music just didn't appeal to many of us fans. The way he layered the sounds, while Martin played guitar. Just amazing. I heard that Andrew only played basic keyboards like the base synthesizer sounds. Keep doing what you are doing Nick. Congradulations to the band for their Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Induction. Much Deserved.

[@tompogson9755]

Being involved in his Recoil projects as well as remixing and working with others also helped him reach the conclusion as in something like Recoil he didn't have to be democratic with three other people. Great video! 😊

[@cyrusjulian187]

Finally KZbin recommends a video with substance. There are the questions that need to be addressed in my life! Subscribed!

[@PlanetoftheDeaf]

It would have been fairer (both financially and artistically) if the last 3 Alan albums (MFTM to SOFAD) had been credited with Alan as co producer rather than Depeche Mode. NONE of the subsequent albums credit DM as co producers, which confirms that it was primarily Alan in that role.

[@YouKnowWhereYouWentWrong]

You hit the nail on the head right there. The royalty rate to the producers is not insubstantial & to say those albums were co-produced by "Depeche Mode" is ludicrous. Alan co-produced those albums (starting with 'Construction Time Again' and ending with 'SOFAD' with Gareth Jones, Daniel Miller, Dave Bascombe and Flood) while the other three sat around the studio (often not even in the studio.) He was being taken advantage of, pure and simple. And other than Martin Gore, he was the only member of the band whose instrument was actually plugged in while they played live. Andy Fletcher first & foremost was Martin's best friend. He was Martin's sounding board, acting as the go-between for Martin and Alan ( Martin has described himself as averse to conflict on many occasions) and sure, he acted as de facto manager for the first 7-8 years. Then he became simply the Guy Who Claps On Stage. Like the hype man at a hip-hop show.

[@peterboels]

@@YouKnowWhereYouWentWrong Or like Bez in Happy Mondays :-) ;-)

[@Ahghhftgxshnvbbfdgncs]

I completely agree with your assessment. Depeche Mode has lost something. It’s hard to say that they would be any better if Alan was still with the band, but it is obvious that the era of Violator and SOFAD was their best. I believe that Alan was at his best when he was in Depeche Mode. Recoil over the years lost a spark to the point where he finally just put it on the shelf. Depeche Mode is still going but the emotion in the music is progressively being watered down - uninspired. Yes they still have a lot of cool sounds, good lyrics, but it’s not nearly as emotional moving as it once was.

[@ressljs]

I'm surprised more people aren't mentioning Recoil here. The first Recoil album after the split, Unsound Methods, was pretty good. I little dark and weird, but I still enjoyed it. Unfortunately, things went down hill quick (in my opinion). When I heard Subhuman, I thought, "Well, I guess I'm done here."

[@Ahghhftgxshnvbbfdgncs]

I really liked all of his Recoil stuff up until subHuman. He took such a long layoff it’s like he lost the spark to keep going. He wasn’t really marketing himself. He tried to tour at the end but it was kind of a weird tour. It was more like a DJ thing, in fact it was called “Strange Hour” if you recall.

[@melodywilder4800]

I still miss him everyday. In my mind he's still there. He was the core, he was the soul. The sound of DM was never the same since he left. It hurts so much, it's like a missing finger in a hand, now you can using properly your hand without one finger, but it's not the same grip. I miss him dearly.

[@m.Antoine]

Thank you, Nick! Agree with everything! We miss Alan even stronger as nothing new comes from his part.

[@L12Bong]

Nice video. It's still hard for me to accept DM for what they are today. Without that Alan Wilder production, it will never be the same. All this mentioning that Fletcher didn't like Alan and Martin wouldn't communicate with Alan makes me realise that hey, everyone feels like this with someone in any workplace. Even though this subject matter of Alan Wilder leaving the band is OH SO SAD, and HOW THINGS USED TO BE, how about it's been 25 years since Alan Wilder exited and I am really still super fucking pissed with him that he left DM!

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

So many people feel the same, the music meant so much to so many - and still does.

[@chizmo7]

Alan added a level of class to the band's compositions.

[@vjrei]

Alan Wilder suffers from the same problem many people do: he expect everybody to be as elegant, professional and well mannered as him. And the reality is that they took advantage of him.

[@miguelcarino9310]

Outstanding video! You completely nailed the topic down, right down to Enjoy the Silence, which we should treat more as an Alan song than a Martin song.

[@mister0006]

Hi Nick great video and love the channel :-) Alan timing was perfect for leaving the DM.. It was a shame I know but if you check out the Ultra documentary on Vimeo Fletch said he would never do another album with AW ( yeah right lol ) also the band had massive problems with making ULTRA with Dave's drug problem and Martins drink problem (who was drinking all the time he's was in the studio while making Ultra). If AW had stayed in DM he would have become more frustrated and would have left anyway ..note it took DM 13 months to make that album because of the issues. Tim Simenon and his team saved them.... But good on present DM to stay sober and still make music today even though the standard has dropped. Tbf Wrong and Higher are very good tracks

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

I wasn't aware how bad Martin's drinking was during the making of Ultra...it is an amazing album especially when you consider how tough it was to make.

[@mister0006]

@@WorldInMyEyes1 Yes it's a gem, take a look at link and shows footages I have seen b4 on why AW left and the DM's reaction to it vimeo.com/412173213?ref=em-share

[@WilliamHBaird-eq2hp]

Alan Wilder was a great fit! As you stated He alone increased the Artistic production value! As A nightclub DJ in Montreal Canada in the 1980's I met all four Members on the Black Celebration tour. Nice Fellows Martin and I got along best H'ed hang out in teh DJ booth! But always looking for Birds at my club ... and they always got them! Amazing! Depeche Mode is one band I always purchased the 12-Version extended Mixes. It was necessary for dance floor-filling! I would play their albums mostly for home use after hours :-)

[@nickiemartin1426]

I was 16 when I first heard People are People and realized who was DM. By the time I was in college they had become my favorite band. Their body of work after Some Great Reward was some amazing material. When Violated came out, I was graduating from college and it was my favorite album of all time. I was unsure if their peak relied on the fact that it was my peak in life. Now I realize it was just a coincidence. I believe SOF was my second favorite album of all time with U2's Joshua Tree in third. I enjoyed DM after Wilder's departure, but I definitely miss his contributions. I think his touch could have made a few more of Martin's songs excellent instead of just ok or good. I often wonder if the band is aware of the loss after Wilder or are they blind to his influence on their work. Do they see their continued success as validation that he not needed or missed.

[@keithfrance6191]

I didn't realise how much effort Alan Wilder put into the band. I've been listening to DM recently & the comments I've been reading from people praising Alan on how he help change the sound of the band is justifiable. A really good clip about the band highlighting the ever changing trials & tribulations.

[@stevenmarshall189]

Gr8 video Nic, its true that Alan was indeed a huge force sculpturing the band away from a synth / pop sound in an 80's era already full of that sound. They were unique and imo on the outside in the UK market but this ultimately helped them achieve global success especially cracking the very hard to USA market (which for me they never in this country get the credit for) he was key to the change that they needed. It's a shame that these tensions and issues had this effect on the band because it would have been fascinating to see how and what they would look like now. That been said its fair to say that the depeche mode we have today is still a very strong and unique sound and it still has that wilder esque vibe in its sounds. 👍

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

Yes it fascinates me that Depeche are huge in many parts of the world, South America, Germany, Italy, Spain etc... but here in the UK so many people don't even know they are still going!! it's crazy...

[@tonimitchell5370]

I agree with you on why Alan left. I feel that after Dave, Martin, & Fletcher got a better hold on their issues, it brought back the essence of DM. It’s absolutely amazing to see them perform!! I’m a devotee for life!!❤️😀👍

[@JD-of8uy]

Been a massive fan since the early days. Been to loads of shows and when Allan left I didn’t realized how important he really was. I mean it was after SOFD tour. Then Ultra album came along and it was pretty good, followed by the Singles Tour. That was a great tour of many hits and not Ultra songs. So we kind of forgot the input Alan had until the crappie albums started to follow. I ended going to few more shows and it turned out to be the same style. Fans are looking forward to hearing the old stuff. I stopped buying albums from DM ways back, but to keep my interest I’d get peak of the their new stuff on KZbin. With every new album, it was slow and I had no interest in the songs. It took me 25 years to realize that dépêche mode was done when Alan Wilder left.

[@tangomantactical]

I fell in love with DM in 1990ish. I was a junior in high school. What drew was first Dave's voice then, more greatly the ambiance of the tracks. That would fall on the guy who eventually left. Buy Ultra it was different, I couldn't put my finger on it. Alan had left and I actually never knew. There was no Google that was prominent. No smart phones or tablets. I knew Dave was a hard drug user. I remembered hearing on the radio " Dave Gahan from DM has died". My heart sunk. I still listen. The song "Heaven" from 10yrs ago sounds so 1988 its unbelievable. My prayers are with AF's family. I'm sure they'll carry on. Like virtually all bands do.......and in that early to mid years, I had never seen a video. I didn't know MG was singing high tenor. I thought Dave went into his upper register. I sing some and I can mimic Dave's voice mid era. Today he's dropped several octaves. All the alcohol and cigarettes but, he is supposed to be clean of drugs.

[@shaneaverystarr]

Depeche Mode's enormous success both in popularity and in the quality of their recent music shows that they didn't "need" Alan to continue their success; however, for all anyone knows the band would have been even greater today had Alan still been in it.

[@MayLily]

My favorite DM group photo was this SOFAD promo pic at 8:30. DM will always be these 4 members.

[@nicolefockner1158]

Depeche Mode will be my Favorit Band forever! It is sad that Alan leave the Band he was underrated I Think! But to be in a Band for 13 Years is a long time and I Think he was also sad to leave. I understand him and what he did. Yes! Enjoy the silence! He Made this Song so great!

[@eduardoalvarez1921]

Huge DM fan since my teens. Yes, Alan was never given his due. Even Martin makes some reference to this early documentary VH1 behind the music. In my opinion, I'd agree the best was over when Alan left the band.

[@Aesop101]

ALAN WILDER WAS THE GENIUS BEHIND THE SUCCSS OF DEPECHE MODE ...RIP FLETCH