The electronic music genius Vince Clarke celebrates 64
Vince Clarke’s career, spanning over four decades, include co-founding Depeche Mode and being the main songwriter in their debut album “Speak & Spell” that featured the signature hit “Just Can’t Get Enough,” co-founding Yazoo with which he scored the hit songs “Don’t Go” and “Only You” and co-founding Erasure, being the main songwriter to their extensive discography and countless hits including “A Little Respect,” “Sometimes” and “Oh L’Amour”
The electronic music genius Vince Clarke celebrates 64
Vince Clarke, born Vincent John Martin on July 3, 1960, in South Woodford, London, England, grew up in Basildon, Essex. From a young age, Clarke showed a strong interest in music, learning to play the piano and guitar. His early musical influences included electronic music pioneers like Kraftwerk and The Human League, which would significantly shape his career path.
Vince Clarke’s career began in the late 1970s when he formed the band Composition of Sound with friends Andy Fletcher and Martin Gore. The band underwent a transformation when they recruited singer Dave Gahan, becoming the iconic synthpop band Depeche Mode in 1980. Clarke’s songwriting was pivotal to the band’s early success, particularly with their debut album, “Speak & Spell” (1981), which included hits like “Just Can’t Get Enough.”
Despite the success, Clarke left Depeche Mode in late 1981, citing creative differences. Shortly thereafter, he formed the duo Yazoo (known as Yaz in the U.S.) with singer Alison Moyet. Yazoo achieved significant success with hits like “Only You” and “Don’t Go,” and their albums “Upstairs at Eric’s” (1982) and “You and Me Both” (1983) became classics of the synthpop genre.
After Yazoo disbanded in 1983, Clarke continued to explore new musical projects. In 1985, he founded Erasure with singer Andy Bell. This partnership proved enduring and successful, producing numerous hits such as “A Little Respect,” “Sometimes,” and “Oh L’amour.” Erasure became one of the most prominent synthpop acts of the late 20th century, known for their catchy melodies and Clarke’s innovative electronic production.
In addition to his work with Erasure, Clarke has been involved in various other projects and collaborations. He formed The Assembly with producer Eric Radcliffe, releasing the hit single “Never Never” in 1983. Clarke has also worked with artists like Martyn Ware and has been involved in remixes and production for various musicians.
Vince Clarke is known for his private nature, often keeping his personal life out of the spotlight. He married Tracy Hurley in 2004, and they had a son named Oscar. The family resided in Brooklyn, New York until Tracy’s death in 2024. Clarke has a keen interest in vintage synthesizers and has amassed an impressive collection over the years, often discussing his love for analog equipment in interviews.
Today, Erasure remains a significant part of his career, with the duo regularly releasing new music and touring. Clarke also engages in solo projects and collaborations, maintaining his reputation as a pioneer in electronic music.
Look back at the music video “Just Can’t Get Enough” by Depeche Mode, 1981
Watch Yazoo’s 1982 music video for “Don’t Go”
Watch the Erasure music video for one of their biggest hits “Sometimes,” 1986
Watch more music related videos
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