Vince Clarke

Bio

Vince Clarke is an English songwriter, keyboardist and producer best known as a founding member of Depeche Mode, Yazoo and Erasure. Born Vincent John Martin on 3 July 1960 in South Woodford, Essex, he adopted the stage name Clarke early in his career. Clarke co-wrote Depeche Mode’s first hits before leaving the band in 1981. He then formed Yazoo with Alison Moyet, producing the albums Upstairs at Eric’s and You and Me Both. In 1985 he founded Erasure with Andy Bell, creating a string of synth-pop albums and singles that have sold millions worldwide. Beyond his band work, Clarke has produced and collaborated with artists such as Robert Marlow, Paul Quinn and the Assembly, and maintains an active solo career centred on electronic music.