Jimmy Ruffin, Motown singer who probably is mostly known for his song "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted", has passed away. He was 78. His children Philicia Ruffin and Jimmy Lee Ruffin, Jr. confirmed the singer passed away on Monday, November 17 at a Las Vegas hospital, but the cause of death has not been released.
"Jimmy Ruffin was a rare type of man who left his mark on the music industry. My family in its entirety is extremely upset over his death. He will truly be missed," read a statement from Ruffin's family. "We will treasure the many fond and wonderful memories we all have of him."
Motown Records founder Berry Gordy has also released a statement after learning of the sad news. "Jimmy Ruffin was a phenomenal singer. He was truly underrated because we were also fortunate to have his brother, David, as the lead singer of The Temptations, who got so much acclaim. Jimmy, as a solo artist, had 'What Becomes of the Brokenhearted', one of the greatest songs put out by Motown and also one of my personal favorites," Gordy said.
"He was a wonderful human being, quiet and unassuming, who touched many lives with his music, not just here in the states, but overseas, as well. Jimmy Ruffin will always be a part of the Motown legacy, and I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and fans," he added.
Ruffin was born in Collinsville, Mississippi in 1936. He worked with Motown before being drafted into the army. He went back in 1964 and later scored the hit "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" in 1966, which peaked at No. 7 on Billboard's pop chart.
His other popular works included "I've Passed This Way Before", "Gonna Give Her All the Love I've Got" and "Hold On (To My Love)" which was produced by Bee Gees' Robin Gibb. He and his brother David Ruffin also collaborated on 1970's set "I Am My Brother's Keeper".
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