Dave Vanian (born David Lett, 12 October 1956) is a rock musician and lead singer of the punk rock band the Damned. Formed in 1976 in London, the Damned were the first British punk band to release a single, an album, have a record hit the UK charts, and tour the United States. With a fluid line-up since their founding, Vanian has been the only ever-present member.