Soft Cell, the English synth-pop duo formed by Marc Almond and David Ball in 1977, became one of the defining acts of the early 1980s electronic music scene. Rising to prominence with their worldwide hit “Tainted Love” in 1981, they stood out for blending minimalist electronic arrangements with dark, emotive, and often provocative lyrics. Their music explored themes of nightlife, love, and urban alienation, with tracks like “Bedsitter” and “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye” becoming cult favorites. Known for Almond’s dramatic, expressive vocals and Ball’s innovative use of synthesizers, Soft Cell pushed the boundaries of pop by fusing accessibility with artful edge.
Although their initial run ended in 1984, their influence has endured, with many artists citing them as pioneers of synth-pop and alternative electronic music. Their legacy remains tied to their ability to capture the complexities of modern life with style, innovation, and emotional depth.
Sadly, David Ball passed away in October 2025.
Soft Cell’s 1981 single “Tainted Love” stands as one of the most iconic synth-pop tracks of the decade, transforming Gloria Jones’s 1960s soul original into a dark, hypnotic electronic anthem. With its minimalist production, pulsing rhythm, and Marc Almond’s emotionally charged vocals, the song captured a sense of alienation and longing that resonated with a new wave audience.
Its distinctive sound and bold reinterpretation helped propel Soft Cell to international fame, dominating charts worldwide and influencing countless electronic and alternative artists. “Tainted Love” remains a defining moment in early ’80s pop—moody, stylish, and timelessly captivating.
The song peaked at No. 01 in the UK Singles Chart on 5th September 1981.
| A-Side | Tainted Love (2:39) (Ed Cobb) Produced By Mike Thorne |
| B-Side | Where Did Our Love Go? (3:14) (Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, Edward Holland) Produced By Mike Thorne |
| Genre | Electronic, Pop, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 17th July 1981 |
| Label | SOME BIZARRE |
| Catalogue Number | BZ S2 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 15th August 1981 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 01 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 13 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [13 Weeks] – 15th August 1981 – 7th November 1981 |
Officially Released Versions
Tainted Love (Single Version) (2:39)
Tainted Love / Where Did Our Love Go? (Extended Version) (8:57)
Tainted Dub / Where Did Our Love Go? (9:14)
Tainted Love / Where Did Our Love Go? (US Radio Edit) (4:00)
Tainted Love (Instrumental) (3:01)
Versions On Spotify
If you have an active Spotify account you will be able to play the complete versions of the songs below. If you don’t have an account, you will only be able to hear a 30-second sample.
Lyrics
Sometimes I feel I’ve got to
Run away, I’ve got to
Get away from the pain you drive into the heart of me
The love we share
Seems to go nowhere
And I’ve lost my light
For I toss and turn, I can’t sleep at night
Once I ran to you (I ran)
Now I’ll run from you
This tainted love you’ve given
I give you all a boy could give you
Take my tears and that’s not nearly all
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love
Now I know I’ve got to
Run away, I’ve got to
Get away, you don’t really want any more from me
To make things right
You need someone to hold you tight
And you think love is to pray
But I’m sorry, I don’t pray that way
Once I ran to you (I ran)
Now I’ll run from you
This tainted love you’ve given
I give you all a boy could give you
Take my tears and that’s not nearly all
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love
Don’t touch me, please
I cannot stand the way you tease
I love you though you hurt me so
Now I’m gonna pack my things and go
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love (oh)
Touch me, baby, tainted love
Touch me, baby, tainted love
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love (oh)
Tainted love
Tainted love
Written by Ed Cobb
