Dave Ball, the influential synth-pop musician and one half of the iconic 1980s band Soft Cell, has passed away at the age of 66. Known for their worldwide hit 'Tainted Love,' which was the UK's second best-selling single of 1981, Ball played a pivotal role in shaping electronic music. Soft Cell, formed in 1977 with singer Marc Almond, achieved fame with hits like 'Bedsitter,' 'Say Hello, Wave Goodbye,' and their debut album 'Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret,' regarded as a classic of electronic music. Ball's musical journey extended beyond Soft Cell, as he founded The Grid, a pioneering techno group, with chart success including the hit 'Swamp Thing.' Soft Cell reunited in 2001 and released several albums, including 'Cruelty Without Beauty' and 'Happiness Not Included,' the latter recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their upcoming album 'Danceteria,' completed just days before Ball's death, is scheduled for release in spring 2026 as a tribute to his creative spirit. Ball's health declined after a severe accident in 2021, leading to hospitalization and a period in an induced coma. Despite this, he remained emotionally positive and was working on new music with Almond shortly before his passing. Almond described him as a 'brilliant musical genius' and expressed deep sadness at his loss. Richard Norris of The Grid also paid tribute, highlighting Ball's humor, friendship, and musical influence. Born in Chester and raised in Blackpool, Ball met Almond at Leeds Polytechnic, and their partnership revolutionized the synth-pop genre. His work included collaborations with artists like Kylie Minogue, David Bowie, and Pet Shop Boys. Survived by his family, Ball's legacy endures through his groundbreaking music and influence on electronic and pop music.