Dave Gahan is an English singer born in Epping, Essex, who rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of the English electronic band Depeche Mode, formed in Basildon, Essex, in 1980, and is associated with synth-pop, electronic and alternative rock genres. His baritone voice and on-stage delivery have been central to the band's sound, and his solo work has incorporated rock and electronic influences while the group shifted from early synth-pop toward darker, more guitar-driven electronic and alternative rock.