Jimmy Ruffin: From America to the U.K. – A Soul Legend’s International Triumph
Jimmy Ruffin, the soulful American singer best known for his emotional ballads, found his greatest success in a place far from his homeland – the United Kingdom. While many of his American contemporaries struggled to break through on the international stage, Ruffin became a beloved figure across the Atlantic, with his songs striking a chord with British audiences.
Introduction
In 1970, Jimmy Ruffin’s career reached new heights in the U.K., with three of his tracks making the top 10. “Farewell Is a Lonely Sound,” “I’ll Say Forever My Love,” and “It’s Wonderful (To Be Loved By You)” all became massive hits, showcasing his incredible vocal range and deep emotional resonance. His ability to convey vulnerability and yearning in his songs made him stand out in a competitive music scene, earning him a special place in the hearts of listeners in the U.K.
According to the Mirror, Ruffin’s popularity in Britain reached a remarkable milestone when he was voted the world’s top singer in a British poll. This accolade was a testament to his international appeal and the powerful connection he had with his British fan base. It was also a reflection of how deeply his music resonated in a country that had become known for its appreciation of American soul and Motown music during the late ’60s and early ’70s.
Background
While Ruffin’s success was especially notable in the U.K., his music transcended borders, and his contributions to the Motown sound left a lasting impact on the global music landscape. His soulful, heartfelt ballads continue to inspire and resonate with listeners, proving that talent knows no boundaries. Jimmy Ruffin’s journey from the U.S. to becoming an international sensation in the U.K. remains one of the most remarkable stories of success in the world of music.
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Lyrics
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As I walk this land with broken dreamsI have visions of many thingsBut happiness is just an illusionFilled with sadness and confusionWhat becomes of the broken-heartedWho had love that’s now departed?I know I’ve got to findSome kind of peace of mindMaybeThe roots of love grow all aroundBut for me they come a-tumblin’ downEvery day heartaches grow a little strongerI can’t stand this pain much longerI walk in shadowsm searching for lightCold and alone, no comfort in sightHoping and praying for someone who careAlways moving and goin’ nowhereWhat becomes of the broken-heartedWho had love that’s now departed?I know I’ve got to findSome kind of peace of mindHelp meI’m searching, though I don’t succeedBut someone look, there’s a growing needAll is lost, there’s no place for beginningAll that’s left is an unhappy endingNow, becomes of the broken-heartedWho had love that’s now departed?I know I’ve got to findSome kind of peace of mindI’ll be searching everywhereJust to find someone to careI’ll be looking everyday, I know I’m gonna find a wayNothing’s gonna stop me nowI’ll find a way somehowAnd I’ll be searching everywhereI know I gotta find a wayI’ll be looking