David Ruffin

Date of Birth: January 18, 1941

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: June 1, 1991

Biography

David Ruffin was an American soul singer and musician, best known as one of the lead vocalists of the Temptations during the group’s “Classic Five” period. Born Davis Eli Ruffin in Whynot, Mississippi, he grew up in a deeply musical family. His father was a Baptist minister, which provided David with early exposure to gospel music. Ruffin joined the Temptations in 1964 and quickly became a standout member with his distinctive raspy, yet emotive voice. He led on some of the group’s most iconic songs, including “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” and “I Wish It Would Rain.” His tenure with the Temptations was marked by both professional success and personal struggles, including battles with addiction. After leaving the Temptations in 1968, Ruffin pursued a solo career, scoring hits like “My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)” and “Walk Away from Love.” Despite his talent, his solo career was often hampered by his off-stage issues. He continued to perform and record sporadically until his untimely death in 1991. Ruffin’s legacy endures through his contributions to soul music and the indelible mark he left on the Temptations and the genre as a whole.

5 Interesting Facts about David Ruffin

1. David Ruffin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Temptations in 1989.

2. He initially aspired to become a minister, following in his father’s footsteps.

3. Ruffin’s distinctive voice was a key factor in the Temptations’ rise to prominence during the 1960s.

4. He was known for his charismatic stage presence, often wearing glasses with thick lenses that became his trademark.

5. Despite his success, Ruffin struggled with substance abuse, which ultimately contributed to his departure from the Temptations and his later life challenges.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Ruffin

1. “The music is what made me, but it’s also what broke me.”

2. “I don’t think I’ll ever stop singing. It’s in the blood.”

3. “Every song tells a story, and my job is to bring that story to life.”

4. “Fame is a double-edged sword; it gives you everything and takes away everything.”

5. “The Temptations were like a family, with all the love and all the struggles that come with it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, David Ruffin’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million.

Children

David Ruffin had four children: David Ruffin Jr., Cheryl Ruffin-Robinson, Nedra Ruffin, and Kimberly Ruffin. His children have continued to honor his legacy in various ways, with David Ruffin Jr. also pursuing a career in music.