It’s uncommon for a cover song to surpass the commercial success of the original, as the earlier version often resonates deeply with audiences even years after its release. However, when this does occur, it is usually due to various factors; one reason is that the cover song provides a fresh perspective that appeals to a more contemporary audience. Recently, country singer Luke Combs released a 2023 version of “Fast Car,” originally written and performed by Tracy Chapman. While both versions achieved success, Combs’ rendition peaked higher on the Billboard music charts. Another notable example occurred in 1982 when the British synth-pop duo Soft Cell released a cover of the Motown classic “Tainted Love.”
Soft Cell’s Version Of “Tainted Love” Outdid the Original
Motown, the renowned pop, R&B, and soul-based record label established in 1959, rose to prominence in the 1960s with its iconic musical acts such as The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, The Supremes, and The Temptations. This label not only redefined the music industry but has inspired many artists across generations. Even musicians from genres far removed from Motown’s signature sound have drawn inspiration from its music and artists. For instance, the British synth-pop group Soft Cell, consisting of vocalist Marc Almond and instrumentalist David Ball, formed in 1978 and released several original tracks but did not achieve commercial success until the early 1980s. This success was largely attributed to their cover of the 1964 Motown hit “Tainted Love,” originally sung by Gloria Jones and written by Ed Cobb. The nearly three-minute-long soul-pop song addresses feeling trapped in a toxic relationship and deciding to escape. It was later included on the B-side of Jones’ 1965 single “My Bad Boy’s Comin’ Home,” both of which did not perform well commercially. It wasn’t until Soft Cell recorded and released their version in 1982 that it became a smash hit and helped define 1980s music. In a 2002 interview about their career, Almond remarked that “Tainted Love” remains a significant single, noting its recent remix release. He added, “Wherever you go, you can’t run away from it. Soft Cell really comes from disco and dance music.”
Soft Cell’s David Ball Dies At Age 66
Following the immense success of “Tainted Love,” Soft Cell continued to produce hit songs like “Soul Inside,” “Where the Heart Is,” and “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye.” However, the duo disbanded in 1984 due to personal and professional challenges but reunited in 2004. According to a recent BBC report, they were working on a new album when David Ball passed away unexpectedly. A statement from Ball’s family and publicist confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep at his home in London on Wednesday, October 22. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed. This shocking news follows years of health issues for Ball; earlier this year, he performed at the Rewind Festival in England while using a wheelchair due to injuries sustained in an accident. He had informed the Yorkshire Post in 2003 about his injuries: “I fractured lower vertebrae in my spine and cracked about five ribs and broke my wrist.”
Additionally, reports indicate that Ball suffered from pneumonia and sepsis in his final years, leading to an induced coma during a seven-month hospital stay. He had recovered enough to collaborate with Almond on their upcoming album, Danceteria, set for release next year. In a heartfelt social media post, Almond reflected on Ball’s passing: “The pair of us have been on a journey together heading on for 50 years with ups and downs, successes and failures; though to us it was never failure, just all part of the adventure, and it was one hell of an adventure,” he shared. “Thank you Dave for being an immense part of my life and for the music you gave me,” he concluded his tribute. “I wouldn’t be where I am without you.”
