Who originally sang “Tainted Love”? You might be surprised to learn that it was not originally performed by Soft Cell, who popularized the song in the 1980s. The real answer lies in the mesmerizing voice of Gloria Jones, who first recorded the track in 1965. This soulful tune captivated audiences back then, and its timeless appeal continues to resonate today. Join me as we delve into the origins of “Tainted Love” and explore the remarkable journey this iconic song has taken over the years. So, who originally sang “Tainted Love”? Let’s find out!
Who Originally Sang “Tainted Love”
The song “Tainted Love” has become a beloved classic over the years, with its catchy beat and memorable lyrics. But have you ever wondered who originally sang this iconic tune? In this article, we will dive deep into the history of “Tainted Love” and discover the original artist behind this timeless hit.
The Genesis of “Tainted Love”
Before we reveal the original singer, let’s explore the origins of “Tainted Love.” The song was actually written by Ed Cobb, an American songwriter and producer, in the 1960s. Cobb originally intended it to be a soul song and produced a recording by a lesser-known artist, Gloria Jones, in 1965.
Gloria Jones
Gloria Jones was an American singer-songwriter who had moderate success as a solo artist and background vocalist. Her rendition of “Tainted Love” was released as a B-side to her single “My Bad Boy’s Comin’ Home.” Although the song did not gain much popularity at the time, it caught the attention of Northern soul enthusiasts in the UK.
Northern Soul Scene
In the 1970s, the Northern soul scene in the UK began to embrace American soul records that had not achieved mainstream success. DJs in clubs started playing obscure tracks, including Gloria Jones’ version of “Tainted Love.” The song resonated with the crowd and soon became a massive hit within the Northern soul community.
Soft Cell’s Cover
Several years later, a synth-pop duo called Soft Cell, consisting of Marc Almond and David Ball, discovered Gloria Jones’ version of “Tainted Love.” They were captivated by the song’s infectious melody and decided to cover it in their own unique style.
Soft Cell
Soft Cell emerged during the early 1980s and quickly gained popularity with their synth-driven sound. Marc Almond’s distinctive vocals added a new dimension to “Tainted Love,” transforming it into a synth-pop anthem that would resonate with a wider audience.
Success and Cultural Impact
Soft Cell’s version of “Tainted Love” was released in 1981 as a single and instantly became a chart-topper in the UK. The song’s success was not limited to the British charts—it achieved international acclaim and topped the charts in numerous countries, including the United States.
This cover of “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell left a significant cultural impact. It became synonymous with the 1980s and served as an anthem for a generation. The song’s catchy hook and the band’s distinctive sound made it an instant classic.
The Legacy of “Tainted Love”
Since Soft Cell’s rendition, “Tainted Love” has been covered by various artists across different genres. It has appeared in movies, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.
Notable Covers
Here are a few notable covers of “Tainted Love” that have contributed to its legacy:
- Marilyn Manson: The alternative metal artist included a hard-rock version of “Tainted Love” in his album “Lest We Forget: The Best Of” in 2004.
- Pussycat Dolls: The American girl group released a dance-pop cover of “Tainted Love” in 2005, which garnered significant commercial success.
- Hannah Peel: The English singer-songwriter reimagined the song using a musical box arrangement in 2010, adding a haunting and delicate touch to the classic.
Now that you know the history behind “Tainted Love,” you can appreciate the journey of this iconic song. From Gloria Jones’ original soul rendition to Soft Cell’s synth-pop cover, “Tainted Love” has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. So the next time you find yourself singing along to this catchy tune, remember the artists who gave it life.
Gloria Jones Tainted Love Original 1964
Frequently Asked Questions
Who originally sang “Tainted Love”?
The song “Tainted Love” was originally sung by the American soul and synth-pop duo, Soft Cell.
Who composed “Tainted Love”?
“Tainted Love” was composed by Ed Cobb, an American songwriter and producer, in the year 1964.
When was the original version of “Tainted Love” released?
The original version of “Tainted Love” was released in 1964 by Gloria Jones, an American singer-songwriter.
When did Soft Cell cover “Tainted Love”?
Soft Cell released their cover of “Tainted Love” in 1981 as a single and it subsequently appeared on their album “Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret.”
Did Soft Cell’s version of “Tainted Love” become popular?
Yes, Soft Cell’s version of “Tainted Love” became incredibly popular, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and gaining international success.
Has “Tainted Love” been covered by other artists?
Yes, “Tainted Love” has been covered by various artists over the years, including Marilyn Manson, Coil, and The Pussycat Dolls, among others.
Final Thoughts
“Tainted Love” was originally performed by Gloria Jones in 1964. This iconic song, with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, quickly gained popularity and became a cult favorite among music lovers. Over the years, it has been covered by various artists, including Soft Cell, whose version became a massive hit in the 1980s. However, it was Gloria Jones who originally sang “Tainted Love,” leaving an everlasting impact on the music industry. Her soulful rendition continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, making her the definitive voice behind this timeless classic.