A Soulful Lament: Unveiling Jimmy Ruffin’s “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”
Ah, yes, “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”, a song that reverberates with the raw vulnerability of heartbreak.
Released in the sweltering summer of 1966, this soulful ballad instantly captured the hearts of millions, becoming a cornerstone of Motown’s enduring legacy.
But to truly appreciate this timeless tune, we must delve deeper, exploring the artist who poured his soul into its every note, the songwriting team behind the poignant lyrics, and the cultural backdrop that cradled its rise to fame.
Background
Our journey begins with the inimitable Jimmy Ruffin. Born in Mississippi in 1936, Ruffin’s musical journey started early, singing gospel in his youth.
By the early 1960s, he found himself at Motown, the legendary record label synonymous with soulful sounds and innovative production.
While his younger brother, David Ruffin, rose to stardom as the lead singer of The Temptations, Jimmy carved his own path, known for his powerful and expressive vocals.
“What Becomes of the Brokenhearted” wasn’t initially destined for Ruffin. The songwriting trio of William Weatherspoon, Paul Riser, and James Dean crafted the song, and it was another Motown artist who was slated to record it. However, fate intervened.
As legend has it, Jimmy Ruffin, deeply moved by the song’s emotional core, convinced the label to let him record it. This proved to be a masterstroke.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
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 to 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 needOh, he 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
Always has been one of my favorite songs. Joan Osbourne sings this so live on the Motown movie and it will bring tears to your eyes