A regrettable loss for the music industry.
Dave Ballthe influential co-founder of the iconic English synth pop duo Soft Cellas well as a respected composer, producer and instrumentalist, has died at the age of 66. The news of his death has shocked the music industry and his fans around the world.
It's hard to write this, let alone process it, but it is with great sadness that we announce that the other half of Soft Cell, the wonderfully brilliant musical genius David Ball, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday night. As many know, Dave had been ill for a long time and his health had slowly deteriorated over the past few years.
Even so, he always returned determined to continue his work in the studio and, although he has not been able to travel abroad, he has been able to perform with me as Soft Cell on occasions in the UK. His last appearance was at the festival Rewind a few weeks ago, where we headlined in front of over 20,000 people, after which he felt euphoric and received a huge boost.
It's only fitting that our next (and now last) album together is called Danceteriasince the theme transports us to almost the beginning of everything, to New York in the early 80s, the place and time that really shaped us. We always feel like an honorary American band, as well as quintessentially British. We've always been self-referential to the history and mythos of Soft Cell, and this album will, in many ways, close that circle for us.
I wish he had stayed to celebrate his 50th birthday in a couple of years. He will always be loved by the fans who loved his music. It's a cliché, but it's still valid and, at any time in the world, someone listens to, plays, dances to and enjoys a Soft Cell song, even if it's just that two and a half minute epic.
My condolences are with his family at this time.
Thank you, Dave, for being such an important part of my life and for the music you gave me. I wouldn't be where I am without you,” his lifelong partner, Mark Almond, wrote on social media.
The departure of Dave Ball leaves a void in electronic music and synth pop, genres in which Soft Cell He left an indelible mark with hits like “Tainted Love”. His pioneering legacy and creative genius will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and listeners.
