Listen to Tainted Love Performed by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Soft Cell’s ‘Tainted Love’ has been reimagined into its own unique rendition by an 80-piece orchestra.

In just two weeks, the BBC Philharmonic has written, adapted and performed the classic ‘80s tune. And each musician recorded their part in their own home.

Soft Cell was formed by Marc Almond and Dave Bell. They were both students at Leeds Polytechnic (now Leeds College of Music) at the time. And ‘Tainted Love’ was Soft Cell’s second single, reaching number 1 in the UK singles chart. It also became the best-selling single of 1981.

“Anthem of West Yorkshire”

BBC Radio Leeds breakfast presenter Richard Stead, said: “The Philharmonic produced an incredible take on the ‘anthem of West Yorkshire!”

“To hear ‘Tainted Love’ covered by such a talented orchestra is amazing.”

The song, first played on BBC Radio Leeds breakfast show on July 3 will be added to the Great Northern Playlist on BBC Sounds, a collection of songs made up from one tune from each of the North’s 10 BBC Local Radio areas.

Simon Webb, director of the BBC Philharmonic, said: “The BBC Philharmonic rose up to the challenge and produced a truly incredible take on Tainted Love in all its glory!

“The Philharmonic has been playing and broadcasting concerts in the North of England for nearly 100 years and continues to showcase the musical talent of the region.”

Listen to the BBC Philharmonic’s cover of ‘Tainted Love’ on Radio Leeds Sounds now!