Jimmy Ruffin – Foolish Thing To Do

Introduction

Released during a fertile period for soul music, “Foolish Thing To Do” isn’t just another catchy tune; it’s a carefully crafted piece that showcases Ruffin’s vocal prowess and a lyrical theme that remains timeless. The song speaks to the universal experience of recognizing a mistake in matters of the heart, that moment of clarity when you realize you’ve perhaps acted impulsively or against your better judgment in the pursuit of affection. It’s a sentiment that many of us, with a few years and experiences under our belts, can undoubtedly relate to.

Background

Ruffin’s delivery is key to the song’s impact. His voice possesses a remarkable blend of vulnerability and strength. There’s a certain tenderness in his tone as he navigates the emotional landscape of the lyrics, conveying the regret and self-awareness that comes with hindsight. He doesn’t wallow in self-pity; instead, he presents a mature reflection on a misstep, a quiet acknowledgment of having done a “foolish thing.” This nuanced portrayal of emotion is what elevates the song beyond a simple tale of romantic woe.

The musical arrangement of “Foolish Thing To Do” is also noteworthy. It’s steeped in the classic soul sound of the time, likely featuring a rich tapestry of instrumentation. Think of the subtle interplay of horns, the steady and comforting rhythm section, and perhaps the gentle caress of strings adding a layer of sophistication. These elements work in perfect harmony to create an atmosphere that is both melancholic and comforting. It’s the kind of arrangement that doesn’t overpower the vocals but rather cradles them, allowing Ruffin’s voice to take center stage and deliver the emotional weight of the song.

Listening to “Foolish Thing To Do” today, one can appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its creation. It’s a testament to an era when songs were often built with careful attention to detail, from the arrangement to the vocal performance and the lyrical content. There’s a certain authenticity in the music of that period, a genuine expression of human emotions that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

I was thinking just the other day
How it started in such a strange way
It ended in a strange way too
And this is why I am singing this song for you

It’s a foolish thing to do
Such a foolish thing to do
Give your heart to someone new
It’s a foolish thing to do
(yeah)

We’ve all made the same mistakes
One foolish glance one smile we made
A hundred thousand feel this way
While other people are just waiting for the day

It’s a foolish thing to do
Such a foolish foolish thing to do
Go when you want it
When you need it
Don’t just believe it
For the first an last time
Stop !

You’d better look around
One day you’ll walk into the room
Your eyes will meet
You’ll fall in love too soon
The next time you might hesitate
The chance is all those rooms have eyes
So don’t forget

It’s a foolish thing to do
Such a such a foolish thing to do
To go and give your heart and soul to someone new
It’s a foolish foolish thing to do
So when you feel it
When you can touch it
And you believe it
For the first an last time
Stop !
You’d better look around
It’s a foolish thing to do
Such a foolish thing to do