As the frontman of synth pop pioneers Depeche Mode, English singer/songwriter Dave Gahan reached the global masses with alternative anthems beloved by generations of fans. While the genre wasn't intended to be soulful, Gahan's baritone, stage swagger, and charismatic ways infused Depeche Mode's music with a passion and vulnerability that helped propel the band to platinum sales, the tops of charts around the world, and into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Outside of his duties with Depeche Mode, he also launched a solo career, issuing his debut album, Paper Monsters, in 2003.