The Communards were a British synthpop duo active from 1985 to 1988, consisting of singer Jimmy Somerville and classically-trained musician Richard Coles. Their musical style was a blend of pop and disco, with a notable cover of Thelma Houston's "Don't Leave Me This Way" becoming the UK's biggest selling single of 1986. The Communards were also known for their openly gay members, which was significant at a time when homosexuality was less accepted in mainstream society. Their music often reflected their personal experiences and offered support to the LGBTQ+ community, marking them as an important part of pop music history.