Henrick Vartanian
Both as Depeche Mode’s energetic front man and as a successful solo artist, Dave Gahan has won numerous awards, but the latest, which was handed to him on May 6, at L.A.’s Club Nokia left the singer lost for words: “They said they were going to honor me with some kind of award, which I’m still confused about,” Gahan was quoted saying on the red carpet, at the annual MAP/Musicares event.
Rocker, and American Idol judge, Steven Tyler presented the Stevie Ray Vaughan award to Gahan (49) for both his commitment sobriety and his dedication and help to the music community.
Ozomatli kicked off the night with their rock-out rendition of Depeche Mode’s ‘Just Can’t get Enough.’ Then Paramore performing two songs along with Jane’s Addiction lead man, Perry Ferrell.
Linkin Park front man Chester Bennigton, a longtime Depeche Mode fan was also on hand, performing and acoustic version of ‘The Messenger,’ which he originally wrote about his oldest child (15), but a song that also has a message of recovery, contributing to the theme of the night while honoring one of his musical heroes.
The eight-song finale by Gahan, was the highlight of the evening including an impressively spot-on cover of Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” in addition to of David Bowie’s “Cracked Actor.”
Also honored that night was Vans Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman, who apparently almost went to work for Depeche Mode sometime in his career. Past recipients of this prestigious award have been Chris Cornell, and Metalica’s James Hetfield.
For more info on Grammys.com, Musicares / MapFund event, CLICK HERE
Dave Gahan’s official website: http://www.davegahan.com/