LONDON — The music community is in mourning following the peaceful passing of Dave Ball, co-founder of the pioneering British synth-pop duo Soft Cell, at the age of 66.

Ball, whose innovative keyboard work and electronic touches helped define an era, died quietly in his sleep at his London home on October 22 or 21, according to different reports.

His bandmate and lifelong collaborator Marc Almond described him as a “wonderfully brilliant musical genius” whose friendship and creativity spanned nearly five decades.

Together, Ball and Almond formed Soft Cell in 1979 while both art-students at Leeds Polytechnic. Their breakout 1981 hit “Tainted Love” became an international sensation, marking a watershed moment in pop and electronic music.

Beyond Soft Cell, Ball also left his mark as part of the acid-house group The Grid, as a producer and remixer for artists such as Kylie Minogue and David Bowie, and as a staunch innovator in electronic music.
Sky News
Even as he faced declining health in recent years, Ball remained creatively engaged—just days before his death he and Almond completed what is expected to be their final Soft Cell album, Danceteria.
The Independent

Almond reflected, “It’s so sad as 2026 was all set to be such an uplifting year for him,” while taking comfort that Ball heard the finished record and believed it was a strong piece of work.
NME
For fans, fellow musicians, and those touched by his work, Ball’s legacy transcends the hits. He helped open the door to new sounds, clubs, and creative possibilities—his influence echoes in every shimmering synth line and dance-floor anthem that followed.
As the music world says goodbye, we remember Dave Ball not simply for what he made, but for how he made it: with bold imagination, uncompromising artistry, and an unmistakable electronic heartbeat.
He is survived by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless artists and listeners whose lives were enriched by his music.