The Enduring Friendship of Richard Coles and Jimmy Somerville: A Musical Legacy

Back in the 1980s, long before his time as a reverend and his stint on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, Richard Coles was a key member of an iconic pop duo. The 62-year-old was one half of The Communards, formed alongside bandmate Jimmy Somerville after the breakup of their previous group, Bronski Beat. Coles' contributions extended beyond playing the keyboard; he was also a co-writer of some of the band's most successful songs.

The Communards' Chart-Topping Success

The Communards are best known for their number-one hit, “Don't Leave Me This Way,” which topped the UK Singles Chart in 1986. Their rendition of the disco classic “Never Can Say Goodbye” also achieved considerable success, reaching number four in the UK charts. Their debut album, simply titled Communards, released in 1986, featured both of these iconic tracks, followed by their second album, Red, in 1987. This period cemented their place in 80s music history.

The Breakup and Beyond

Sadly, The Communards disbanded in 1988. After this, Richard Coles embarked on a different path, eventually becoming a priest in 2005. He also added broadcasting to his repertoire, notably appearing on BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live and participating in Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. His multifaceted career showcases his diverse talents and interests.

The Reason Behind the Split

In a 2022 interview with Classic Pop Magazine, Richard reflected on the band's breakup. He explained, "I don't think we understood each other. Our lives were so different, we didn't really have the tools for finding our way through disagreements. It was obvious we had nothing left to give each other. We never actually split up, though. We just decided to stop for a while. It's a pause that's lasted 33 years." This candid admission provides insight into the complexities of maintaining a creative partnership.

An Enduring Friendship

Despite the long pause in their musical collaboration, the question remains: are Richard Coles and Jimmy Somerville still friends? The answer is a resounding yes. In an interview with Retro Pop Magazine the same year, Richard shared, "It's always good to see him and I will always be very grateful for him and love him very much." This statement underscores the depth of their relationship beyond their musical collaboration. He further elaborated to Classic Pop Magazine: “Communards was something we went through together uniquely as equal partners. I’d love to see more of Jimmy, because reflecting on what happened is a conversation I hope we have one day.” This reflects a desire for reconciliation and continued friendship.

A Lasting Legacy: The Impact of The Communards

The Communards left an undeniable mark on the 80s music scene. Their unique blend of pop sensibilities and soulful vocals resonated with audiences worldwide. “Don't Leave Me This Way” remains a timeless classic, frequently featured in film soundtracks, television shows, and various forms of media. Their music continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists, ensuring their legacy in the world of pop music persists.

The impact of The Communards extends beyond their commercial success. Their music became an anthem for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance during a time when such visibility was not easily achieved. Their influence on LGBTQ+ culture is a significant testament to their enduring legacy.

Beyond their musical achievements, the story of Richard Coles and Jimmy Somerville is a testament to the power of friendship. Despite the challenges and complexities of their professional partnership, their bond has endured the test of time. Their story is a reminder that even after significant life changes and career transitions, meaningful relationships can remain strong and enduring. This is a powerful message in today’s world of constant change and disruption. The story of their success and their enduring friendship continues to inspire.

The lasting impact of their music and their friendship ensures that The Communards and their legacy will continue to be celebrated for years to come. The continued relevance of their work speaks to the timeless quality of their music and the enduring impact of their creative collaboration. Their impact on the world is undeniable and their legacy is one to celebrate.