The Communards - Don't Leave Me This Way

“Don’t Leave Me This Way” is a song originally written by Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff, and Cary Gilbert. It was first recorded by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes featuring Teddy Pendergrass in November 1975 and became a hit in the disco and soul music scene. The Communards'(Jimmy Somerville and Richard Coles,) version was released on August 11, 1986 with “Sanctified” on the B-side as the third single from their debut self-titled album.

This version became a massive hit and is celebrated for its energetic and danceable sound. The Communards’ rendition of “Don’t Leave Me This Way” is characterized by a synth-pop and dance-pop style. Jimmy Somerville’s soulful and powerful vocals, combined with the duo’s energetic production, made the song a dancefloor favorite. The lyrics of the song express themes of heartbreak and the plea for a loved one not to leave. The narrator of the song expresses a deep longing for the person they love and implores them not to go.

The Communards’ version of “Don’t Leave Me This Way” was a massive commercial success. It topped the UK Singles Chart and Billboard dance chart in the United States. It remains one of the standout hits of the 1980s and a classic dance anthem. The song was voted by public as British 16th favorite 1980s number one in a poll for ITV-