Depeche Mode was one of the more exciting bands to emerge from the British New Wave movement that invaded America in the early 1980s. With deep rich vocals from frontman Dave Gahan backed up by the exceptional songwriting and musicianship of Martin Gore and the late Andy Fletcher, Depeche Mode crafted a unique sound by mixing electronica, synth-heavy dance beats, and pop-inspired hooks. And the cute and camera-ready quartet had a perfect look for music videos, and in 1984 they finally had their breakthrough hit.
People Are People was the lead single from Depeche Mode’s fourth studio album, Some Great Reward. This was the band’s first LP to break through on the U.S. charts, though they were mostly played on alternative & college radio at the time. People are People also had a slow shelf life, slowly rising in popularity throughout the following year, no doubt helped by the music video featured on MTV. The song was also the band’s most radio-friendly single thanks to its driving synth-pop beat, contrasting with its darker and socially conscious lyrics. The message of the song is simple: accept each other regardless of race, sexual orientation, or any prejudices that plague the human species.
The music video was directed by Clive Richardson, and it’s a vintage time capsule of the 80’s British New Wave look with the band members decked out in leather and wild bleach blonde hair. The clip features the quartet roaming the pipe-lined hallways of the Royal Warship HMS Belfast, intercut with iron curtain era and military-themed footage. There’s an anti-cold war bent to the piece, as the British were nervous about the U.S. and Russia aiming their nuclear warheads at each other with the U.K. stuck in the middle. It’s an entertaining if dated video and features lead singer Dave Gahan busting some impressive dance moves.
The single and the music video of People Are People would grow in popularity, becoming an 80’s radio staple. It’s now Depeche Mode’s most recognizable hit and helped kickstart the group to even greater commercial success. The British band has amassed an impressive music catalog complimented by many stylish videos such as Strangelove and Enjoy the Silence.
Even more impressive, Depeche Mode is still producing music and touring, with their new album Memento Mori set for release in March 2023. And this will be the band’s first album after the tragic death of founding keyboardist Andy Fletcher. The remaining members have hinted that this may be their final release, capping off an impressive 43-year-old career. Not bad for a British-based, underground electronica group that formed in 1980.
Check out the music video below, and let me know your thoughts in the comments section.