David Ruffin was an American soul singer who rose to fame as a member of the Motown group The Temptations. Born in 1941 in Mississippi, Ruffin moved to Detroit in the 1950s and started his music career as a member of various local groups. He joined The Temptations in 1964, and his powerful and soulful vocals quickly made him a standout member of the group.
Ruffin’s time with The Temptations produced some of their most iconic hits, including “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.” He later embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a string of albums that showcased his incredible range and talent as a singer.
Despite his incredible talent, Ruffin struggled with addiction and personal issues throughout his life. He passed away in 1991 at the age of 50.
Ruffin’s legacy as a soul singer is immeasurable. He is remembered for his incredible voice, his charismatic stage presence, and his contributions to the Motown sound. His music continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans, and he remains a beloved and iconic figure in the world of soul music.
1. My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)
“My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” is a classic soul song originally recorded by David Ruffin, the former lead singer of The Temptations, in 1969. The song features Ruffin’s passionate and emotive vocals, as he laments the end of a relationship and the devastating impact it has had on his life. The song’s arrangement, which includes sweeping strings and a dramatic horn section, adds to the emotional impact of the lyrics. “My Whole World Ended” has become a beloved classic in the soul genre, and a testament to Ruffin’s powerful voice and timeless musical style.
2. I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You) (The Temptations)
“I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)” is a soulful and emotive song by American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1968 as a single from their album “Wish It Would Rain.” The song features a smooth and mellow sound, with a steady beat, soulful harmonies, and lead vocals by David Ruffin. The lyrics express a deep sense of loyalty and devotion, with Ruffin singing about how he could never love another after being with his true love. “I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)” is a classic example of The Temptations’ signature sound, and a testament to Ruffin’s incredible talent as a singer and performer.
3. Ain’t Too Proud To Beg (The Temptations)
“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” is a soulful and upbeat song by American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1966 as a single from their album “Gettin’ Ready.” The song features a catchy and danceable sound, with a driving rhythm, funky guitar, and harmonies. The lyrics express a sense of determination and persistence, with lead singer David Ruffin singing about his willingness to do whatever it takes to win back his love. “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” became a massive hit and remains a fan favorite and a classic of 1960s soul and R&B music, showcasing The Temptations’ incredible talent and energy.
4.Since I Lost My Baby (The Temptations)
“Since I Lost My Baby” is a soulful and heart-wrenching song by American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1965 as a single from their album “The Temptations Sing Smokey.” The song features a smooth and melodic sound, with a gentle rhythm, soulful harmonies, and lead vocals by David Ruffin. The lyrics express a deep sense of loss and sadness, with Ruffin singing about how his life has changed since losing his love. “Since I Lost My Baby” is a classic example of The Temptations’ signature sound, and a testament to Ruffin’s incredible talent as a singer and performer.
5. I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved
“I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved” is a soulful ballad recorded by the legendary soul singer David Ruffin, released in 1973. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who has lost everything he held dear, including his home, family, and love. Ruffin’s powerful and emotive vocals add a sense of raw emotion to the song, and the haunting strings and piano melody provide a melancholic backdrop. The song’s themes of heartbreak and loss are universal and resonate with listeners, making “I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved” a timeless classic in the soul genre.
6. Beauty’s Only Skin Deep (The Temptations)
“Beauty’s Only Skin Deep” is a classic Motown song by the legendary vocal group The Temptations, released in 1966 as a single from their album “The Temptations Sing Smokey”. The song’s upbeat and catchy sound, driven by a groovy bassline and a bouncy rhythm section, creates a fun and danceable atmosphere. The lyrics address the importance of looking beyond superficial appearances and valuing inner beauty and character. “Beauty’s Only Skin Deep” is a timeless and empowering message, showcasing The Temptations’ signature harmonies and their ability to combine social commentary with catchy and memorable music.
7. I Wish It Would Rain
“I Wish It Would Rain” is a soulful and melancholic song by American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1967 as a single from their album “Wish It Would Rain.” The song features a slow and mournful sound, with a gentle melody, strings, and emotive vocals by lead singer David Ruffin. The lyrics express a deep sense of heartbreak and longing, with Ruffin singing about how he wishes it would rain to hide the tears he’s crying over a lost love. “I Wish It Would Rain” is a powerful and emotional song that showcases The Temptations’ ability to create music that is both musically and emotionally engaging.
8. (I Know) I’m Losing You (The Temptations)
“(I Know) I’m Losing You” is a classic soul song by The Temptations, released in 1966. The song features the group’s signature harmonies and a driving, energetic beat, with lyrics that express the pain of losing a lover to another person. The lead vocals by David Ruffin are particularly notable, as he delivers a passionate and anguished performance that conveys the emotions of the song. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus have made it a beloved classic in the soul genre, and a testament to the enduring popularity of The Temptations’ music.
9. Your Love Was Worth Waiting For (The Ruffin Brothers)
“Your Love Was Worth Waiting For” is a soulful and emotive duet by the R&B brothers Jimmy and David Ruffin, released in 1970 as a single. The song’s slow and melancholic sound, featuring a lush orchestral arrangement and the brothers’ heartfelt vocals, creates a powerful and poignant atmosphere. The lyrics express the pain and longing of a narrator who has finally found true love after a long and difficult journey, celebrating the joy and fulfillment that their partner brings into their life. “Your Love Was Worth Waiting For” is a touching and romantic tribute to the power of love and perseverance.
10. My Girl (The Temptations)
“My Girl” is a soulful and romantic song by American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1965 as a single from their album “The Temptations Sing Smokey.” The song features a catchy and upbeat sound, with a simple and memorable melody, hand claps, and harmonies. The lyrics express a deep sense of love and devotion, with lead vocalist David Ruffin singing about how his girl makes him feel happy and complete. “My Girl” became a massive hit, and its message of love and romance has resonated with audiences for decades. The song is a classic of 1960s soul and R&B music and a testament to The Temptations’ talent as musicians and performers.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
