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The Great David Ruffin: The Motown Solo Albums, Vol. 1
2005
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The Great David Ruffin: The Motown Solo Albums, Vol. 1 is a compilation album by David Ruffin, released on August 26, 2005, by Hip-O Select/Motown. This 2-CD set compiles four of Ruffin's out-of-print solo albums in their entirety, spanning his work from 1969 to 1977. It begins with his chart-topping hit, "My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)" and proceeds through the albums *Feelin' Good*, *David Ruffin*, and *Me 'n Rock 'n Roll Are Here to Stay*.
The compilation showcases Ruffin's departure from the Temptations' polished sound, highlighting his penchant for deep southern soul ballads and raw dance floor fillers. It includes tracks that demonstrate his vocal tenacity and adventurousness, often missing from his work with the Temptations. The album features a picture booklet with rare photos and extensive sleevenotes by David Ritz.
Recording Info
The album compiles recordings from 1969-1974, recorded at Motown Recording Studios in Hollywood, California. Producers include Harvey Fuqua, Johnny Bristol, Henry Cosby, George Gordy, Ivy Jo Hunter, Norman Whitfield, and Mark Davis.
Track Highlights
- My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me) — Ruffin's first hit single after leaving The Temptations
- Pieces of a Man
- Somebody Stole My Dream
- Everlasting Love
- The Double Cross — Demonstrates Ruffin's straining vocals while delivering a tale of lost love
- Common Man — Finds Ruffin following Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye into social commentary
- Put a Little Love In Your Heart
- Feeling Alright
- Smiling Faces Sometimes
- Me and Rock 'n' Roll (Are Here to Stay)
Personnel
- David Ruffin (Vocals)
- David Van DePitte (Arranger)
- Henry Cosby (Arranger, Producer)
- Paul Riser (Arranger)
- Wade Marcus (Arranger)
- Willie Shorter (Arranger)
- Carolyn Willis (Backing Vocals)
- Jessie Kirkland (Backing Vocals)
- Joe Greene (Backing Vocals)
- Julia Tillman Waters (Backing Vocals)
- Lisa Roberts (Backing Vocals)
- Luther Waters (Backing Vocals)
Significance
This compilation is significant for bringing back into print Ruffin's early solo work, which had been out of print for years. It highlights his unique vocal style and his ability to convey deep emotion in his performances. The album also showcases Ruffin's willingness to tackle social commentary, as seen in the song "Common Man".
David Ruffin helped construct the building that became the HQ for Hitsville U.S.A. and struck up a friendship with a young Marvin Gaye.
Track List
Apple Music
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