Jimmy Ruffin - A Voice That Lingers
A voice that touched many hearts has gone quiet. Jimmy Ruffin, the person who sang those well-known tunes like "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" and "Hold On (To My Love)," passed away, as a matter of fact, in a medical center in Las Vegas. His passing, at the age of seventy-eight, marks the end of a remarkable life lived with song. People will, you know, remember him for his distinct sound and the feelings he could bring out in a tune.
He was, in some respects, a key part of the Motown sound, even though his career took a slightly different path than some of the other very famous names. His recordings, especially that one about broken hearts, really struck a chord with listeners everywhere. It’s almost as if his singing held a special kind of comfort for those who heard it, offering a gentle presence in their lives.
This piece will, basically, look at the life and the musical journey of this truly special performer. We will consider his early days, the tunes that made him a household name, and the lasting mark he made on music. So, get ready to recall the sounds of a person who gave us so much through his art.
Table of Contents
- The Story of Jimmy Ruffin
- What Made Jimmy Ruffin's Voice So Special?
- Beyond the Hits - What Else Did Jimmy Ruffin Do?
- How Did Jimmy Ruffin Impact Music?
- A Look at Jimmy Ruffin's Biggest Songs
- What Was Jimmy Ruffin's Motown Connection?
- How Was Jimmy Ruffin as a Performer?
- What Is Jimmy Ruffin's Legacy?
The Story of Jimmy Ruffin
Jimmy Ruffin, a person whose singing brought joy to so many, started his life in a small community. He came into the world on May 7, 1936, in Collinsville, Mississippi, a place that, you know, holds a special spot in the story of American music. His journey from that small town to becoming a recognized figure in popular music is quite something to consider. He put out a number of popular tunes during his singing days, tunes that still resonate with people even now. His passing on November 17, 2014, in a Las Vegas medical center, marked the end of his time here. He lived to be seventy-eight years of age, leaving behind a wealth of musical contributions for all to enjoy.
Beyond his singing, Jimmy Ruffin also took on roles in front of the camera. He was, actually, a person who acted in various productions. You might have seen his work in films like "Breakfast on Pluto" from 2005, or perhaps "Forever Mine" which came out in 1999. He also made an appearance in the television program "JAG" in 1995. These acting parts show that his talents stretched beyond just standing at a microphone and singing a song. He was, in a way, a multi-faceted person, able to engage with different kinds of creative work, which is pretty cool when you think about it.
Personal Details and Biographical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jimmy Lee Ruffin |
| Date of Birth | May 7, 1936 |
| Place of Birth | Collinsville, Mississippi, USA |
| Date of Passing | November 17, 2014 |
| Place of Passing | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| Age at Passing | 78 years |
| Known For | Singer, Actor |
| Notable Hits | "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," "Hold On (To My Love)" |
| Film Appearances | Breakfast on Pluto (2005), Forever Mine (1999) |
| Television Appearance | JAG (1995) |
| Record Label Affiliation | Motown Records |
Early Life and Beginnings for Jimmy Ruffin
Born in the southern part of the United States, Jimmy Ruffin’s earliest years set the stage for his musical career. He grew up in a place where music was, you know, often a part of everyday existence. This background surely shaped the kind of artist he would become. While details about his very first steps into music are not widely known, it's clear he developed a voice that would, more or less, stand out from the rest. His roots in Mississippi and his later connection to Detroit's Motown Records show a journey from a quiet beginning to a place of musical significance. He was a person who, basically, carried the sounds of his upbringing into his later work, giving his performances a truly special touch.
What Made Jimmy Ruffin's Voice So Special?
Many people who heard Jimmy Ruffin sing often remarked on the particular quality of his voice. It had, you see, a way of getting to the listener, a certain feeling that few others could match. His sound was, in a way, full of emotion, allowing him to convey the feelings of a song with great sincerity. When he sang about a broken heart, for example, you truly felt the sadness in the words. This ability to connect deeply with the subject matter of his tunes was, quite frankly, a defining characteristic of his performances. It's almost as if his vocal cords were made to tell stories of human feeling, stories that people could relate to on a very personal level.
His singing style was, in some respects, quite distinct from his brother David, who also sang for Motown. While both had amazing abilities, Jimmy had a smoother, perhaps a little more understated approach. This gentle delivery, coupled with the emotional depth, made his recordings truly memorable. He didn't need to shout to be heard; his voice had a quiet strength that, actually, drew you in. This unique blend of control and feeling is what, basically, set his voice apart and made him a favorite for many listeners across the globe. You can, for instance, still hear that special quality in his most recognized tunes even today.
The Sound That Defined Jimmy Ruffin
The sound of Jimmy Ruffin's voice was, quite simply, unforgettable for many who heard it. It possessed a certain kind of warmth, a gentle power that could, you know, fill a room. He had a way of delivering words that made them feel personal, as if he was singing just to you. This quality made his recordings, especially the one about broken hearts, resonate with people in a very deep way. His ability to convey complex feelings through just his singing was, basically, a true gift. It’s a sound that, really, helped to shape a part of the Motown musical experience, offering something a little different from the more upbeat or powerful sounds coming from the label. This particular vocal quality is, sort of, what many remember when they think of him.
Beyond the Hits - What Else Did Jimmy Ruffin Do?
While most people remember Jimmy Ruffin for his singing, especially those popular tunes, his activities stretched beyond just the music studio. He was, as a matter of fact, a person who took on acting parts, showing a different side of his creative abilities. His appearances in movies like "Breakfast on Pluto" and "Forever Mine," along with the TV show "JAG," demonstrate that he had a range of talents. It's not every singer who also gets to be on the big screen or on television, so this is, you know, pretty interesting to consider. These roles, while perhaps not as widely known as his singing, still contribute to the full picture of his career. They show that he was, basically, a person who liked to try different things and explore various forms of expression.
His involvement in these other creative areas suggests that he was a person with a wide interest in the arts. He wasn't just, say, someone who showed up, sang a song, and went home. He was, perhaps, a person who enjoyed the process of making things, whether it was a record or a scene in a movie. This willingness to step into different creative shoes is, in some respects, a testament to his artistic spirit. It also gives us a fuller understanding of the kind of person he was, someone who, apparently, embraced various ways to share his talents with the public. You could say he was, more or less, a person who lived a life full of creative pursuits.
Jimmy Ruffin's Work Outside of Singing
Beyond the recording booth, Jimmy Ruffin found other avenues for his creative energy. He was, as mentioned, an actor. This meant he got to appear in films and on television, which is a different kind of performance altogether. For instance, in "Breakfast on Pluto," he was part of a story that reached a different kind of audience than his music usually did. His work in "Forever Mine" and "JAG" also put him in front of cameras, allowing him to portray different characters. These roles, while perhaps not the main thing people think of when they hear his name, still show his willingness to, you know, explore other artistic paths. It's clear he wasn't someone who just stuck to one thing; he liked to, basically, spread his wings and try new things, which is pretty cool.
How Did Jimmy Ruffin Impact Music?
Jimmy Ruffin's contributions to music, particularly during his time with Motown, left a lasting impression. His singing style, often described as soulful, brought a particular flavor to the popular sounds of the era. He showed that songs about sadness or longing could, you know, still be popular and widely enjoyed. His most recognized tune, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," became a kind of anthem for people going through tough times, and it still speaks to listeners today. This ability to create music that truly connects with people on an emotional level is, basically, a significant part of his influence. He helped to shape the sound of an era, even if he wasn't always in the very brightest spotlight. He was, in a way, a quiet force in the music world, leaving behind songs that continue to be heard and loved.
His work also played a part in the overall story of Motown Records. While his brother David was a prominent figure in The Temptations, Jimmy carved out his own place with his solo efforts. This showed that there was, in some respects, room for different kinds of voices and different kinds of stories within the Motown family. His success helped to broaden the appeal of the label, bringing in listeners who might have preferred his smoother, more reflective sound. So, he was, in a way, a key piece of the Motown puzzle, contributing to its diverse collection of talent. His tunes, like "Hold On (To My Love)," continued to reach people, showing the enduring quality of his musical output. He was, quite frankly, a person who helped make Motown what it was.
The Enduring Mark of Jimmy Ruffin
The mark Jimmy Ruffin left on the music world is, you know, still present for those who listen closely. His tunes, particularly the ones that became popular, continue to be played and remembered. He showed that a person could achieve widespread recognition with a voice that was both gentle and full of feeling. His approach to singing, which prioritized the emotion of the words, influenced other performers and songwriters. It's almost as if he gave permission for sadness to be beautiful in a song, a truly powerful idea. His contributions are, in some respects, a reminder of the rich history of Motown and the diverse talents that made it such a special place for music. He was, basically, a person whose musical work continues to touch new generations of listeners, which is a pretty wonderful thing.
A Look at Jimmy Ruffin's Biggest Songs
When people think of Jimmy Ruffin, a few tunes immediately come to mind. He put out a number of popular tunes, but two, in particular, stand out as his most recognized. These songs, as a matter of fact, became hallmarks of his career and are still widely enjoyed today. They showcase his unique vocal abilities and his gift for delivering a song with genuine feeling. It’s almost as if these tunes were made for his voice, allowing him to express a range of feelings that listeners could truly connect with. He had a way of making the words feel personal, even if they were about a universal experience like a broken heart. So, these songs are, you know, a big part of why he is remembered so fondly by so many people.
These popular tunes were not just catchy; they were, in some respects, deeply emotional. They spoke to people about common human experiences, making them relatable across different groups of listeners. The way he sang them, with that smooth, sincere tone, made them stick in people's minds and hearts. They became, basically, a part of the soundscape of their time, and they continue to be played on radio stations and in homes around the world. This lasting appeal is a clear sign of the quality of his musical work and the impact he had. He was, quite frankly, a person who made songs that truly stood the test of time, which is a rare and special thing for any artist.
"What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" and Other Jimmy Ruffin Classics
Without a doubt, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" stands as Jimmy Ruffin's most recognized tune. Released in 1965, this song, you know, truly captured the feelings of loss and sadness in a way that resonated with countless listeners. Its thoughtful words and his heartfelt singing made it a timeless piece of music. But he also had other popular tunes, like "Hold On (To My Love)," which showed a different side of his musical output. These songs, and others, helped to establish his place as a solo artist within the Motown family. Even at the height of his fame in the United States, Ruffin, apparently, seemed to embody the role of a person who did not seek the spotlight, preferring his music to speak for itself. This quiet approach, coupled with his powerful vocal work, made his classics truly special.
What Was Jimmy Ruffin's Motown Connection?
Jimmy Ruffin's name is, you know, deeply connected with Motown Records, that famous Detroit-based music company. He was a person whose soulful voice lent itself to the distinctive sound that Motown was known for. While he was not as famous as some of the label's biggest stars, his contributions were, in some respects, very important. He was part of the group of gifted performers who made Motown a household name. His most recognized tune, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," came out on the Motown label, cementing his place in its history. This connection meant he was part of a truly special period in music, a time when new sounds were being created and shared with the world. He was, basically, a person who helped define a generation's musical tastes.
It's interesting to consider that Jimmy Ruffin was, at one point, in the running to join The Temptations, one of Motown's great male vocal groups. This happened in 1964, before his big solo success. Imagine how different things might have been if he had joined that group! However, he went on to have his own solo career, which allowed his individual voice to shine through. This shows that, sometimes, the path you don't take can lead to even greater things for you. His journey with Motown, whether as a potential group member or a solo artist, clearly shows his talent and the high regard in which he was held by the company. He was, quite frankly, a valued member of the Motown family, contributing his unique sound to their vast collection of hits.
Jimmy Ruffin and the Motown Family
The story of Jimmy Ruffin is, you know, very much intertwined with the story of Motown Records. He was a person who, basically, contributed his distinctive singing to the label's rich musical output. While his brother David was a prominent member of The Temptations, Jimmy forged his own path as a solo artist, putting out records that resonated with people. His tunes, like "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," are clear examples of the Motown sound, even if they carried a slightly different emotional weight. He was, in some respects, part of that amazing group of singers, songwriters, and producers who made Motown a powerhouse in the music world. His presence on the label meant that his soulful voice reached millions, making him a recognized figure in the Motown family. He was, apparently, a person who truly belonged in that collection of musical talent.
How Was Jimmy Ruffin as a Performer?
Beyond his studio recordings, Jimmy Ruffin was also a person who truly connected with audiences when he sang live. He earned much adulation as a live performer, which means people really enjoyed seeing him on stage. There's a special kind of magic that happens when a singer performs in front of a crowd, and Jimmy Ruffin, you know, had that touch. His ability to deliver his songs with feeling, in person, must have been quite something to experience. It’s almost as if his voice, already so full of emotion on record, gained an extra layer of sincerity when he was right there in front of you. This connection with his audience is, basically, a sign of a truly gifted performer, someone who can make people feel something just by being there and sharing their art. He was, quite frankly, a person who gave his all during his live appearances.
His stage presence, while perhaps not as flashy as some other performers, was, in some respects, deeply engaging. He didn't need a lot of theatrics; his voice and the feelings he put into his songs were enough to hold the attention of the crowd. People were drawn to his genuine delivery and the way he expressed the words of his tunes. This kind of performance, where the focus is purely on the voice and the message, is, you know, a sign of a true artist. He was a person who understood how to use his gifts to create a memorable experience for those who came to see him. So, his reputation as a live performer is, basically, a testament to his natural talent and his ability to connect with people on a very personal level. He was, apparently, a person who truly loved to sing for others.
The Stage Presence of Jimmy Ruffin
When Jimmy Ruffin stepped onto a stage, he brought with him a presence that, you know, truly captivated his audience. People who saw him sing live often spoke of the warmth and sincerity he projected. He wasn't known for big dance moves or flashy outfits; instead, his performance was centered on his voice and the honest feelings he poured into each tune. This kind of direct, heartfelt delivery is, in some respects, what made him so beloved as a live performer. He earned much adulation from those who experienced his concerts, showing that his talent went beyond just making records. He was, basically, a person who could command attention just by opening his mouth and letting his voice fill the space, which is a pretty amazing thing for any singer to do.
What Is Jimmy Ruffin's Legacy?
The legacy of Jimmy Ruffin is, you know, one of enduring music and a voice that continues to touch people. He left behind a collection of songs that speak to universal human experiences, particularly those of love and heartbreak. His most recognized tune, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," remains a classic, played regularly and loved by new generations. This lasting appeal is a clear sign of the quality of his musical work and the deep feelings he put into his singing. He showed that a person could achieve widespread recognition with a gentle yet powerful voice, proving that sincerity often resonates more than flashiness. So, his musical output continues to be a comfort and a source of joy for many, which is, basically, a wonderful thing for any artist to achieve.
Beyond the songs themselves, Jimmy Ruffin's story is also part of the larger story of Motown Records and American music. He was a person who, in some respects, helped
Jimmy Neutron Image
Jimmy Neutron - Legends of the Multi Universe Wiki
Jimmy (2013) Cast, Crew, Synopsis and Movie Info
