Tainted Love - Soft Cell - MP3 instrumental karaoke

"Tainted Love" by Soft Cell is a synth-pop song released on July 17, 1981. Originally written by Ed Cobb and recorded by Gloria Jones in 1964, the song became famous when the British duo Soft Cell, consisting of Marc Almond and David Ball, covered it. Their version quickly topped the UK Singles Chart and became one of the best-selling singles of 1981, with significant success internationally, including a peak position at number 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics discuss escaping a toxic and emotionally draining relationship. Soft Cell's version is noted for its minimalist electronic instrumentation, characterized by the use of synthesizers, which was a departure from the traditional rock and soul sounds of the time. Despite its initial moderate chart performance in the US, "Tainted Love" eventually broke records for its longevity on the Billboard Hot 100, spending 43 weeks on the chart. The song has since been recognized as one of the defining hits of the 1980s, ranking high on various greatest hits lists and being featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.