David Eli Ruffin, an American soul singer and musician (January 18, 1941 – June 1, 1991), is most known for his time spent as one of the Temptations’ lead singers (1964–68), or the group’s “Classic Five” period. His lead vocals may be heard on well-known songs like “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.”
Ruffin, a tenor singer well-known for his distinct raspy and distressed vocals, was named one of the 100 greatest singers of all time by Rolling Stone magazine in 2008. For his work with the Temptations, he was honored in 1989 by being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
What was David Ruffin’s biggest hit?
“Walk Away From Love” is David Ruffin’s most popular song. He performs with the Soul Stirrers in the middle of the 1950s, where he runs into upcoming performers Little Richard, Bobby Womack, Elvis Presley, and the Staple Singers.
Ruffin switches from gospel to early secular R&B after being inspired by his idols Sam Cooke and Jackie Wilson’s new commercial style.
After becoming acquainted with Berry Gordy, Jr., David helps build the structure that eventually housed Hitsville U.S.A.’s headquarters and befriends a young Marvin Gaye.
