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Depeche Mode are an English electronic music band formed in Basildon, Essex, in 1980. They are one of the most successful, influential, and enduring bands in the electronic genre, known for their dark lyrical themes, innovative synth sounds, and powerful live performances.Formed by Vince Clarke (keyboards), Andy Fletcher (keyboards), Martin Gore (keyboards, guitar, vocals), and Dave Gahan (lead vocals). Clarke left after debut album, replaced by Alan Wilder (keyboards, 1982-1995). Pioneered synthpop, evolved into darker electronic rock. Massive global success from mid-80s onwards. Key albums: 'Violator' (1990), 'Songs of Faith and Devotion' (1993). Sold over 100 million records. Active for over 40 years.

• Founding member Vince Clarke left abruptly after their successful debut album 'Speak & Spell' (1981) to form Yazoo and later Erasure, citing discomfort with the band's rising fame.
• Alan Wilder, who joined in 1982 and became crucial to their complex sound, quit in 1995 due to increasing tensions within the band and feeling undervalued, leading to a period of uncertainty.
• Lead singer Dave Gahan battled severe heroin addiction in the mid-1990s, culminating in a near-fatal overdose and heart attack in 1996 during the tumultuous 'Songs of Faith and Devotion' tour. He later achieved sobriety.
• Longtime member and co-founder Andy Fletcher died unexpectedly on May 26, 2022, from an aortic dissection while at home. His death deeply impacted the band and fans worldwide.
• Persistent rumors of reunions with former members Alan Wilder or Vince Clarke occasionally surface in music media, but both the band and the ex-members have consistently downplayed these as highly unlikely, citing different creative paths.