When it comes to soul music that hits you straight in the heart, David Ruffin stands as one of the most powerful and passionate voices of all time. As the unforgettable lead singer of The Temptations during their golden era—and later as a solo artist—Ruffin delivered raw emotion, unmatched vocal power, and a stage presence that left audiences breathless. His voice wasn’t just heard—it was felt, deep down in your soul.
In this countdown of the Top 10 Most Popular David Ruffin Songs of All Time, we’re celebrating the timeless tracks that showcase his incredible range, emotional intensity, and undeniable influence on soul, R&B, and pop music. From the soaring heartbreak of his Temptations classics to the gritty, heartfelt power of his solo hits, each song on this list tells a story—and Ruffin makes you feel every word.
Whether you’re swaying to a Motown masterpiece or belting out a soul-stirring anthem, these songs are proof of why David Ruffin remains a legend whose music continues to move generations. So turn up the volume, close your eyes, and let that raspy, golden voice take you on a journey through the very heart of soul. Let the countdown begin!
1. “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” (1966)
Unlike the smooth romance of “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” is a raw, urgent plea for love. Released in May 1966, this fiery track was written by Norman Whitfield and Eddie Holland and showcased Ruffin’s grittier, more desperate vocal style. Backed by an energetic, brass-heavy arrangement and a driving rhythm, Ruffin delivers each line with intense passion, practically begging for love with every note. His commanding voice, combined with the song’s infectious groove, made it a standout hit, climbing to No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. This song not only solidified Ruffin’s status as The Temptations’ lead vocalist but also became a defining moment in Motown’s golden era.
2. “My Girl” (1964)
Released in December 1964, “My Girl” remains one of Motown’s most cherished classics and a defining moment in The Temptations’ career. Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of The Miracles, the song was crafted specifically for David Ruffin, whose smooth yet powerful voice brought the lyrics to life. From the moment the iconic bassline kicks in, followed by the warm, soaring strings, the song radiates pure joy and devotion. Ruffin’s heartfelt delivery, full of sincerity and warmth, transformed “My Girl” into an anthem of love and longing. It became The Temptations’ first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying their place in music history. Even decades later, the song’s uplifting melody and timeless charm continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
3. “(I Know) I’m Losing You” (1966)
One of The Temptations’ most emotionally charged tracks, “(I Know) I’m Losing You”, was released in November 1966. Written by Norman Whitfield, Eddie Holland, and Cornelius Grant, the song captures the painful realization that love is slipping away. The tense, dramatic instrumentation mirrors the paranoia and anguish in Ruffin’s vocals, making every lyric drip with raw emotion. His impassioned performance helped the song reach No. 1 on the R&B chart, and its haunting intensity has led to covers by artists like Rod Stewart and Rare Earth. This track remains one of Ruffin’s most powerful performances, a true testament to his ability to channel deep, unfiltered emotion.
4. “Beauty Is Only Skin Deep” (1966)
Released in August 1966, “Beauty Is Only Skin Deep” delivers a heartfelt message wrapped in an irresistibly catchy beat. Written by Norman Whitfield and Eddie Holland, the song explores the idea that true love goes beyond appearances—a theme that resonated deeply with fans. Ruffin’s vocals strike a perfect balance between smooth and commanding, effortlessly riding over the song’s upbeat, danceable groove. With its infectious energy and meaningful lyrics, the song shot up to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing The Temptations’ legacy. Ruffin’s ability to infuse sincerity into every line made this track another unforgettable hit.
5. “My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” (1969)
After leaving The Temptations, David Ruffin launched his solo career with a bang, releasing “My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” in January 1969. This grand, orchestral soul ballad was written by Harvey Fuqua, Johnny Bristol, Pam Sawyer, and James Roach, and tells the story of a man left shattered by a breakup. The song’s dramatic buildup and soaring arrangement complement Ruffin’s deeply emotional performance, proving that he could shine as a solo artist. The track became an instant hit, climbing to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of Ruffin’s most iconic solo songs.
6. “I Wish It Would Rain” (1967)
Few songs capture heartache as beautifully as “I Wish It Would Rain”. Released in December 1967, this soul-stirring ballad was written by Norman Whitfield, Barrett Strong, and Roger Penzabene, the latter of whom penned the lyrics after experiencing devastating heartbreak in real life. Ruffin’s performance is haunting—his voice aches with sorrow, making the song an emotional masterpiece. The delicate piano intro, paired with the dramatic orchestration, sets the stage for Ruffin’s lament, as he wishes for rain to hide his tears. The song became another major hit, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of the most powerful expressions of sadness in soul music.
7. “I’m So Glad I Fell for You” (1969)
Released in October 1969, “I’m So Glad I Fell for You” showcases a softer, more romantic side of Ruffin. This slow-burning ballad features lush strings, a delicate piano melody, and a warm, heartfelt vocal performance. Ruffin’s voice exudes tenderness and devotion, making this song a hidden gem in his solo catalog. While it wasn’t a major chart hit, its intimate and emotional delivery makes it one of his standout love songs.
8. “I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved” (1969)
One of Ruffin’s most underrated gems, “I’ve Lost Everything I’ve Ever Loved”, was released in May 1969. A deep cut from his solo career, the song is drenched in sorrow and regret, with a haunting orchestration that allows Ruffin’s soulful voice to take center stage. His delivery is raw and vulnerable, making listeners feel every ounce of his pain. Though it didn’t achieve major commercial success, the song remains a fan favorite for its emotional depth and authenticity.
9. “Heavy Love” (1976)
Released in 1976, “Heavy Love” is a lesser-known but electrifying track that seamlessly blends funk and soul. With its groovy bassline, energetic horns, and Ruffin’s commanding vocals, the song exudes confidence and charisma. While it didn’t achieve major commercial success, it stands as a testament to Ruffin’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes. The track’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it a hidden treasure in his solo discography.
10. “Walk Away from Love” (1975)
By the mid-1970s, Ruffin made a stunning comeback with “Walk Away from Love”, released in October 1975. Written by Charles Kipps, this disco-infused soul track became a major crossover success, reaching No. 1 on the R&B chart and No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. Unlike his earlier heartbreak anthems, this song tells the story of a man choosing to leave rather than endure more pain. The pulsating beat and Ruffin’s soaring falsetto gave the song a fresh, danceable feel while still retaining the emotional depth that defined his career. It remains one of his biggest solo hits.
Samuel Moore 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.
