Soft Cell Co-Founder Dave Ball Dies Age 66 Weeks After Completing Final Album

Dave Ball, the keyboard player and one half of the iconic electronic pop duo Soft Cell, has died at the age of 66 after a long decline in health. Ball passed away peacefully in his sleep at his London home just days after completing Soft Cell's final album, "Danceteria," which he was emotionally focused and happy with. His bandmate Marc Almond paid tribute to Ball as a "wonderful brilliant musical genius" and reflected on their nearly 50 years of collaboration, noting their contrasting personalities but strong creative chemistry. Despite serious health challenges, including pneumonia and sepsis following a fall in 2022, Ball continued to perform, most recently at the Rewind Festival, and remained dedicated to his music. Almond expressed sorrow that Ball did not live to celebrate their 50 years together but found solace that he heard and appreciated their last work. Ball's music legacy continues to resonate with fans worldwide, immortalizing his contribution to synth-pop and Soft Cell's enduring influence.