Dave Ball, best known for his work in the band Soft Cell, has died at the age of 66, his bandmate Marc Almond has announced.
On Thursday, a statement from Almond, 68, confirmed that Ball had died on Wednesday.
He revealed that his musical partner’s death came just days after they completed their band’s final album.
Almond said in a statement: ‘It is hard to write this, let alone process it, as Dave was in such a great place emotionally. He was focused and so happy with the new album that we literally completed only a few days ago.
‘It’s so sad as 2026 was all set to be such an uplifting year for him, and I take some solace from the fact that he heard the finished record and felt that it was a great piece of work. Dave’s music is better than ever.
‘His tunes and hooks are still unmistakably Soft Cell, yet he always took it to the next level too.
‘He was a wonderfully brilliant musical genius, and the pair of us have been on a journey together for almost 50 years.’
He then reflected on their early career together, remembering that they always worked well together as they had such different spirits.
‘In the early days, we were obnoxious and difficult, two belligerent art students who wanted to do things our way, even if it was the wrong way. We were naive and made mistakes, although we never really saw them as such.
‘It was all just a part of the adventure. Dave and I were always a bit chalk and cheese, but maybe that’s why the chemistry between us worked so well.’
Almond revealed his sadness and added that he wished his musical partner had ‘stayed on long enough to celebrate our 50 years together in a couple of years’ time.’
He alluded to the band’s breakup in 1984, when they decided to go their separate ways before reuniting for a new album in 2001. They stayed together until 2005, at which time they took a 13-year-long break before reuniting in 2025.
‘Whenever we came back together after long periods apart, there was always that warmth and chemistry. There was a deep mutual respect that gave our combined songwriting its unique power.
‘We laughed a lot, and shared a sense of humour, and a love of film, books and music. Dave had shelves full of books and an array of wonderful and surprising musical references.
He continued: ‘He was the heart and soul of Soft Cell and I’m very proud of our legacy.’
Soft Cell was first formed in the late 1970s, releasing their debut album, Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret, in 1981 and going from success to success in the 80s.
The duo were pioneers of the synth pop sound and were best known for their cover of Gloria Jones’ Tainted Love.
They were also praised for their songs; Say Hello, Wave Goodbye, and Torch.
The band released six albums in total between the years of 1981 and 2024, with a new album anticipated, according to Almond.
In their times apart, Ball worked as a producer, songwriter and remixer with artists including Kylie Minogue, David Bowie and Pet Shop Boys.
He also co-founded the band The Grid and collaborated with artists and producers, including Ingo Vauk and Chris Braide.
Almond’s tribute concluded: ‘He will always be loved by the Soft Cell fans who love his music and his music and memory will live on. At any given moment, someone somewhere in the world will be getting pleasure from a Soft Cell song.
‘Thank you Dave for being an immense part of my life and for the music you gave me. I wouldn’t be where I am without you.’
Ball is survived by his close family, including his four children.