David Ruffin
Born 18th January 18 1941 - Meridian, MS
Died 1st June 1991 - Philadelphia, PA
Died 1st June 1991 - Philadelphia, PA
David Ruffin's voice was The Temptations - but like so many talented soul stars, he became something of a prima donna and the group eventually removed him in 1968. This didn't stop him from jumping up on stage and fronting the show on many occasions. Eventually it stopped and David had a short solo career, before his death in mysterious drug related circumstances.
Probably the greatest lead singers Motown ever had, David did lead vocal on My Girl (1965) Since I Lost My Baby (1965), Beauty is Only Skin Deep (1966), All I Need (1967), and I Wish it Would Rain (1968). His solo career started with My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me), reaching the USA pop and soul Top Ten in early 1969. His last USA Top Ten hit was the magnificent Van McCoy-produced Walk Away From Love, in 1976.
After leaving Motown in 1977, David went to Warner Brothers and later, RCA where he was joined by Eddie Kendricks.
Unfortunately, He had a history of drug abuse and his death from a drug overdose in 1991 was no surprise but it was the sad end of a great, great talent.
On hearing the news to you it might seem strange but I wished It Would Rain, Rain, Rain, Rain.
