David Ruffin

David Ruffin (born Davis Eli Ruffin; January 18, 1941 – June 1, 1991) was an American soul singer and musician most famous for his work as one of the lead singers of the Temptations (1964–1968) during the group's "Classic Five" period as it was later known. Ruffin was the lead voice on such famous songs as "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." He later scored two top ten singles as a solo artist, "My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)" and "Walk Away from Love."

David Ruffin
Ruffin in 1970
Background information
Birth nameDavis Eli Ruffin
Also known asLittle David Bush
Born(1941-01-18)January 18, 1941
Whynot, Mississippi, U.S.
DiedJune 1, 1991(1991-06-01) (aged 50)
West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Genres
  • Soul
  • R&B
  • pop
  • disco
  • Rock and Roll
Occupation(s)Singer
Instrument(s)
  • Vocals
  • drums
Years active1956–1991
Labels

Known for his unique raspy and anguished tenor vocals, Ruffin was ranked as one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine in 2008 and again in 2023. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 for his work with the Temptations. Fellow Motown recording artist Marvin Gaye once said admiringly of Ruffin that, "I heard [in his voice] a strength my own voice lacked."

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