David Ruffin Age and Birth Details
David Ruffin was born on January 18, 1941, in Whynot, Mississippi, making him a historic figure in American music. His full birth name was Davis Eli Ruffin, and he later became widely known as the lead singer of The Temptations. As of the newest available public records, his age is calculated from that birth date, with his legacy continuing to influence soul and R&B artists worldwide Forbes.
The question "how old is David Ruffin" often refers to his enduring cultural impact rather than a current living age, since he passed away in 1991. Public databases and music archives consistently list his birth year as 1941, which anchors all age-related calculations. His early life in Mississippi and later move to Detroit shaped the vocal style that defined a generation of Motown music.
Career Milestones and The Temptations
David Ruffin joined The Temptations in 1964 and quickly became the group's lead vocalist, driving hits like "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." His tenure with the group is often cited as the peak of their commercial success, with multiple number-one singles on the Billboard charts Billboard.
The Temptations' lineup changes and Ruffin's solo career are well documented in music history sources. After leaving the group, he pursued solo projects that included both successful singles and personal challenges. Industry references and music databases continue to rank his contributions among the most influential in soul music history.
Net Worth, Legacy, and Public Records
David Ruffin's net worth at the time of his passing was modest compared to some of his Motown peers, but his posthumous earnings from royalties and licensing remain significant. Estate management and catalog ownership are tracked by music industry databases and rights organizations SEC.
His legacy is preserved through inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. Current rankings in music influence lists consistently place him among the top soul singers of all time, with streaming data and catalog value reflecting his lasting impact Rolling Stone.