David Ruffin – Walk Away From Love

David Ruffin – Walk Away From Love: A Soulful Ballad of Heartbreak and Resilience

In the realm of soul music, David Ruffin stands as a towering figure, his voice imbued with an emotional depth that has captivated listeners for generations. Among his vast repertoire of hits, “Walk Away From Love” holds a special place, a poignant ballad that captures the complexities of heartbreak and the resilience of the human spirit.

Released in 1975 as the lead single from his album Who I Am, “Walk Away From Love” marked a turning point in Ruffin’s career, showcasing his versatility as a solo artist. The song climbed to number one on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying Ruffin’s status as a soul music icon.

The song’s opening notes, a gentle piano melody, set the stage for Ruffin’s impassioned vocals as he delves into the depths of heartbreak. His voice, raw and emotive, conveys the pain of a love lost, the lyrics painting vivid images of a relationship that has crumbled under the weight of unspoken emotions and unfulfilled promises.

The lyrics, penned by Charles Kipps, capture the universal experience of heartbreak, the fear of vulnerability, and the struggle to let go of a love that no longer serves us. Ruffin’s delivery is both heartbreaking and hopeful, as he acknowledges the pain of the situation while also recognizing the need to move on.

The song’s chorus is particularly poignant, with Ruffin’s voice soaring as he sings, “Gonna walk away from love/Gonna walk away, gonna walk away/I’m gonna walk away from love/Gonna walk away, gonna walk away/Gonna walk away, gonna walk away/Before love breaks my heart.”

“Walk Away From Love” has become a soul music classic, covered by numerous artists and earning a place in the R&B Songwriters Hall of Fame. Ruffin’s heartfelt rendition remains the definitive version, a testament to his songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.

Video

Here are some additional details about the song:

• The song was written by Charles Kipps.
• It was released in 1975 as the lead single from Ruffin’s album Who I Am.
• The song reached number one on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• “Walk Away From Love” has been covered by numerous artists, including Luther Vandross, Mary J. Blige, and Aretha Franklin.