“Never Can Say Goodbye” is a song by The Communards, released in October 1987 as a cover of the original hit by The Jackson 5 in 1971. The Communards’ version became a dance anthem, infused with their signature hi-NRG sound and powerful vocals. The track was part of their second studio album, Red, and it enjoyed significant success, particularly in the UK, where it reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. This version of “Never Can Say Goodbye” is known for its high-energy arrangement and emotional intensity.
The song “Never Can Say Goodbye” was originally written by Clifton Davis and was first recorded by The Jackson 5, with Michael Jackson singing lead vocals. The original version became a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1971 and solidifying its place as a classic Motown track. It was later covered by Gloria Gaynor in 1974, turning it into a disco classic.
When The Communards—fronted by vocalist Jimmy Somerville and multi-instrumentalist Richard Coles—decided to cover “Never Can Say Goodbye,” they gave it a fresh and energetic twist by incorporating their signature hi-NRG sound. Hi-NRG is a subgenre of dance music that combines fast tempos and electronic beats, and it was particularly popular in gay clubs during the 1980s. The Communards’ version of “Never Can Say Goodbye” is characterized by a fast, driving beat, pulsating synths, and soaring vocals from Jimmy Somerville. Somerville’s distinct falsetto voice adds an emotional depth to the song, bringing a sense of longing and heartache to the upbeat, danceable track. The production is rich and layered, with dramatic orchestral elements, making it a high-energy version that resonates with listeners on both emotional and physical levels.
The Communards’ cover of “Never Can Say Goodbye” was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 in numerous European countries, including No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart in 1987, and. It was also popular on the dance charts, counting the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, where it peaked at No. 2. The success of the song contributed to the overall popularity of their album Red, which further established The Communards as a leading act in the 1980s dance and pop music scenes.
The Communards’ version of “Never Can Say Goodbye” remains one of the defining covers of the song, thanks to its upbeat, danceable arrangement and Somerville’s passionate vocals. The song became a staple in 1980s dance culture, particularly within the gay community, where Somerville was a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ rights. While the original version by The Jackson 5 and Gloria Gaynor’s disco version are also widely celebrated, The Communards brought a unique, modern twist to the song, infusing it with 1980s electronic energy and emotion. It remains a fan favorite and a key track in the Communards’ discography.