Certainly one of the greatest Soul singers of all time, David Ruffin was an enigmatic man whose own internal struggles and contradictions led to a tumultuous career, both as the lead vocalist of the Temptations and subsequently as a solo singer.
During the period 1965-68, the Temptations became the biggest Soul group in the world, and Ruffin's star correspondingly grew. His gruff, impassioned lead vocals on dozens of songs including "My Girl," "Beauty's Only Skin Deep" and especially the electric "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" were unparalleled, and provided a gritty soulfulness over the slick Motown arrangements. However, Ruffin's tenure in the Temptations was one of regular turmoil as he battled his personal demons, ultimately leading to his "firing" soon after 1968's Wish It Would Rain album.
Certainly one of the greatest Soul singers of all time, David Ruffin was an enigmatic man whose own internal struggles and contradictions led to a tumultuous career, both as the lead vocalist of the Temptations and subsequently as a solo singer.
During the period 1965-68, the Temptations became the biggest Soul group in the world, and Ruffin's star correspondingly grew. His gruff, impassioned lead vocals on dozens of songs including "My Girl," "Beauty's Only Skin Deep" and especially the electric "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" were unparalleled, and provided a gritty soulfulness over the slick Motown arrangements. However, Ruffin's tenure in the Temptations was one of regular turmoil as he battled his personal demons, ultimately leading to his "firing" soon after 1968's Wish It Would Rain album.
Ruffin was devastated by his dismissal, as the anchor that the group provided for him was gone, and he began a personal roller coaster of financial trouble and drug addiction that would continue until his death. Ruffin began his solo career strongly in 1969 with "My Whole World Ended," taking both the single and accompanying album to the top of the Soul charts and the Pop top 10. It began a second career that certain had its ups and downs, but during which there were a number of magic moments.
While Ruffin had a good number of solo hits, not many fans know of his incredible version of a song that became a #1 hit...for the Jackson Five. Check out Gentleman Ruffin's take on the classic Motown song "I Want You Back." It is brilliant and is a true Lost Gem!
David Ruffin - "I Want You Back"