Depeche Mode’s journey has been marked by monumental success, becoming one of the world’s biggest synth bands while maintaining an enigmatic presence, especially in their home country of the UK. Despite being recognized as global icons, their career has been filled with bizarre, amusing, and even dangerous moments. Here are nine wild stories from their legendary career that all fans should know.
- Martin’s Prank on Fletch
In their early days, Depeche Mode’s sense of humor often led to practical jokes. In 1984, Martin Gore used to prank Andy Fletcher by swapping his glasses with those of their producer, Daniel Miller. The glasses were nearly identical, leading to hilarious situations where Fletch could barely see. According to Martin, the result was always the same: “He gets angrier every time.” - The Accountant’s Doubts
When Depeche Mode first began their journey, their accountant didn’t hold high hopes for the band’s future. In 1984, the accountant created a tax plan expecting the group to last only three years. Yet, they outlasted that estimate by over a decade, proving their longevity in the industry. - Shoes Thrown at Them in the US
By the early ’80s, Depeche Mode’s fame was growing rapidly, but not always in ways they expected. Fans in the U.S. began throwing shoes at them during performances, an odd tradition that Dave Gahan reflected on in 2015. The most bizarre memory came when Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction got hit with a shoe during a concert in the early ’90s. - The German Press Made Up Stories
As Depeche Mode gained popularity in Germany, the press began fabricating stories about them. Fletch recalled how, even when they refused interviews, magazines like Bravo invented wild tales, including one about Dave needing to be carried offstage after each show. These invented narratives contributed to the band’s mystique in the media. - Alan Wilder’s Near-Death Experience
In 1994, keyboardist Alan Wilder narrowly escaped death in a strange incident in Scotland. He was driving near a farm when an RAF Tornado plane crashed on a hillside near him, killing two airmen. Wilder recalled how a quick decision to swerve onto a farm track saved his life, with debris from the explosion nearly engulfing his vehicle. - Primal Scream’s Sobriety Scare
In 1993, Depeche Mode’s infamous Songs of Faith and Devotion tour became legendary for its excess. When Primal Scream opened for them, they were reportedly so shocked by Depeche Mode’s wild behavior that they swore off sin. The debauchery on tour was so intense that even a notorious band like Primal Scream couldn’t keep up. - Dave’s Coffin Naps
During the Devotional tour in the early ’90s, Dave Gahan’s fixation with vampires led to some unusual sleeping habits. He once had a bed shaped like a coffin, and there’s even a story of a coffin being delivered to him on tour in South America. Dave reportedly took naps in it before his performances, adding to the gothic atmosphere of the tour. - Their Label Renamed Them for Leaks
To prevent album leaks, Depeche Mode’s label used to send out promotional copies with fake band names. For their 2005 album Playing the Angel, they were labeled “Black Swarm,” and for Sounds of the Universe in 2009, they were humorously renamed “Tea and Biscuits,” which might reflect their sobriety at the time. - Martin Still Calls the Shots
Despite Dave Gahan contributing to Depeche Mode’s songwriting for over 15 years, Martin Gore remains the band’s primary songwriter. In a 2017 interview, Dave admitted that Martin still has the final say, with Dave often taking a backseat in the creative process. He humorously accepted his role, saying, “I’m on the bench most of the time.”
Depeche Mode’s career is filled with unexpected twists, and these stories are just a few of the wild moments that have defined their legacy in the world of music. From pranks to near-death experiences, their journey is a testament to their resilience and creativity.
