Don't Leave Me This Way

"Don't Leave Me This Way" is a song written by Kenneth Gamle, Leon Huff and Cary Gilbert. It was originally released in 1975 by Harold Melvi & the Blue Notes featuring Teddy Pendergrass, an act signed to Gamble & Huff's Philadelphia International label. "Don't Leave Me This Way" was subsequently covered by American singer Thelma Houston in 1976 and British duo the Communards in 1986, with both versions achieving commercial success.

"Don't Leave Me This Way" was covered by American singer Thelma Houston in 1976. Originally assigned to Diana Ross, it was intended to be the follow-up to her 1976 singl "Love Hangover", but was reassigned to Houston instead.

Following the release of Houston's fourth studio album, Any Way You Like It (1976), it was unanimously reported positive audience response to "Don't Leave Me This Way" and the song was selected for release as a single. Houston's version topped the US soul singles chart. The song peaked at number 13 in the UK