David Ruffin was a highly influential American soul singer and musician, best known as the lead vocalist for The Temptations from 1964 to 1968. Born in 1941 in Mississippi, Ruffin’s powerful and emotive voice helped define the Motown sound of the 1960s. He sang lead on some of The Temptations’ most memorable hits, including “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.” Ruffin’s solo career in the 1970s produced hits like “My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me).” Known for his charisma and stage presence, Ruffin left a lasting legacy in soul music before his untimely death in 1991.
1. My Girl
“My Girl” is a classic soul song recorded by The Temptations in 1964. Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White, the song features David Ruffin on lead vocals and became one of the group’s most iconic hits. With its smooth melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Ruffin’s soulful delivery, “My Girl” celebrates the joy and happiness of being in love. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a signature song for The Temptations, showcasing their harmonies and Ruffin’s distinctive voice. “My Girl” remains a timeless anthem of love and a standout in the Motown catalog.
2. Ain’t Too Proud to Beg
“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” is a classic soul song by The Temptations, released in 1966. Written by Norman Whitfield and Edward Holland Jr., the song features David Ruffin on lead vocals. It became one of The Temptations’ signature hits, known for its catchy melody, energetic rhythm, and Ruffin’s impassioned vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics express vulnerability and longing, with the narrator pleading for a second chance in a relationship. “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” showcases The Temptations’ dynamic harmonies and solidified their reputation as one of Motown’s premier acts. It remains a beloved classic in soul music history.
3. I Wish It Would Rain
“I Wish It Would Rain” is a poignant soul ballad by The Temptations, released in 1967. Written by Norman Whitfield, Barrett Strong, and Rodger Penzabene, the song features David Ruffin on lead vocals. It tells the story of heartbreak and despair, with the narrator longing for rain to mask his tears and emotional turmoil after experiencing a painful breakup. Ruffin’s emotive delivery and the song’s melancholic melody evoke a deep sense of sadness and longing. “I Wish It Would Rain” became a major hit for The Temptations and remains a classic example of their ability to blend soulful vocals with emotionally resonant storytelling.
4. Walk Away From Love
“Walk Away From Love” is a soulful ballad by David Ruffin, released in 1975. Written by Charles Kipps and produced by Van McCoy, the song became one of Ruffin’s biggest solo hits. It tells the story of a man who reluctantly decides to end a relationship despite still being in love, acknowledging that it’s the right thing to do for both parties. Ruffin’s powerful and emotive vocals convey the pain and resignation of the situation, supported by a lush orchestral arrangement and McCoy’s distinctive production style. “Walk Away From Love” remains a classic example of Ruffin’s soulful storytelling and vocal prowess.
5. I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)
“I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)” is a soulful song by The Temptations, released in 1968. Written by Motown’s renowned songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland, the track features the poignant lead vocals of David Ruffin, whose emotive delivery captures the heartache and longing conveyed in the lyrics. The song’s narrative revolves around the profound sorrow of losing a loved one and the realization that no one else could ever replace them. Supported by the smooth harmonies of the other Temptations members, the lush orchestration, and the distinctive Motown production, the song became a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)” is celebrated as a classic example of The Temptations’ ability to blend heartfelt emotion with impeccable musical craftsmanship.
6. What Becomes of the Brokenhearted
“What Becomes of the Brokenhearted” is a soul classic originally recorded by Jimmy Ruffin in 1966. Jimmy Ruffin, David Ruffin’s older brother, delivered a heartfelt vocal performance that became his signature song. Written by William Weatherspoon, Paul Riser, and James Dean, the song expresses the pain and despair of a broken heart, lamenting lost love and seeking solace. It features a soulful melody, poignant lyrics, and Ruffin’s emotive delivery, capturing the essence of heartache and resilience. “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted” became a major hit for Ruffin and remains a timeless anthem in soul music history, admired for its emotional depth and universal theme.
7. I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved
“I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved” is a poignant soul ballad by David Ruffin, released in 1973. The song explores themes of heartbreak and despair, with Ruffin delivering a soulful and emotionally charged vocal performance. It reflects on the devastating impact of losing everything dear to oneself, including love and personal relationships. The lyrics convey a sense of deep pain and regret, capturing the raw emotions of loss and longing. Ruffin’s powerful voice and the song’s lush orchestration create a poignant atmosphere, making “I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved” a standout in his repertoire of soulful ballads.
8. My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)
“My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” is a soul song by David Ruffin, released in 1969. The song, written by Johnny Bristol, Harvey Fuqua, Pam Sawyer, and James Roach, features Ruffin’s emotive vocals, which convey the heartbreak and devastation of a breakup. The lyrics speak of the protagonist’s world crumbling around them following the end of a relationship, highlighting the depth of their despair. Backed by a lush orchestral arrangement and a dramatic musical backdrop, Ruffin’s powerful performance earned the song critical acclaim and commercial success. “My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” remains a poignant and enduring classic in the soul music genre.
9. Statue of a Fool
“Statue of a Fool” is a classic country song written by Jan Crutchfield and first recorded by Jack Greene in 1969. The song became a major hit for Greene, reaching number one on the country charts and becoming one of his signature songs. “Statue of a Fool” tells the story of a man who realizes too late that he has been a fool for not appreciating and valuing his true love. The lyrics use the metaphor of a statue to depict the narrator’s regret and realization of his mistakes. Greene’s soulful delivery and the song’s emotional depth resonated with audiences, solidifying its place as a timeless country classic.
10. Rainy Night in Georgia
“Rainy Night in Georgia” is a soulful ballad originally written by Tony Joe White and first recorded by him in 1969. The song gained widespread popularity with the 1970 version by Brook Benton, whose smooth, deep voice and emotive delivery added to the song’s melancholic charm. “Rainy Night in Georgia” paints a vivid picture of loneliness and longing, with the narrator reflecting on lost love while experiencing a rainy night in a new city. The song’s soulful melody and evocative lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making it one of Benton’s signature songs. Over the years, “Rainy Night in Georgia” has been covered by various artists, further solidifying its status as a classic in the soul and R&B genres.