Vince Clarke’s bold leap: from Depeche Mode to Yazoo

Loading player...
When Depeche Mode burst onto the scene in the early ’80s, their synth-driven sound was spearheaded by Vince Clarke — a quiet, determined figure with a clear sense of direction. While the rest of the group were still finding their footing, Clarke already seemed to have a master plan. So when Daniel Miller, head of Mute Records, picked up the phone to tell the band that Vince was leaving, it came as both a shock and a turning point.
27 Aug 2025 English South Africa Music History · Entertainment News

Other recent episodes

The moment that nearly broke The Human League — and made them iconic

The Backstory is your exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the songs, artists, and albums featured on this week's Classic Countdown with Steve Bishop on HOT 102.7FM. From iconic comebacks to unforgettable chart-toppers, we dive into the stories that shaped the hits you love.
21 Apr 1 min

When success hides the problem: living with a bad record deal

For many artists, the early years of a music career are a whirlwind of excitement — recording songs, touring, and suddenly hearing your music on the radio. Contracts are often signed quickly, sometimes without fully understanding the long-term consequences. And when success arrives, the fine print can feel easy to…
4 Mar 1 min