Jimmy Ruffin – Hold On (To My Love): A Soulful Plea for Enduring Love
In the realm of soul music, Jimmy Ruffin stands as a captivating vocalist, his smooth and soulful voice weaving tales of love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Among his many soulful gems, “Hold On (To My Love)” stands out as a timeless classic, a heartfelt ballad that captures the essence of unwavering devotion and the resilience of love amidst life’s trials and tribulations.
Released in 1966 as a single from Ruffin’s album Jimmy Ruffin Sings Motown Hits, “Hold On (To My Love” quickly ascended to the top of the charts, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its soulful melody, poignant lyrics, and Ruffin’s captivating vocal delivery.
The song’s opening notes, a gentle piano melody and a soft drumbeat, set the stage for Ruffin’s emotive vocals as he pours his heart out in a plea for his beloved to remain steadfast in their love. The lyrics, penned by Eddie Holland, Brian Holland, and Lamont Dozier, capture the essence of unwavering devotion, with Ruffin singing, “Hold on (to my love), I’m holdin’ on for dear life/ ‘Cause I need your love so bad, it’s like oxygen to my lungs.”
The chorus, with its soaring harmonies and repeated refrain, serves as the song’s emotional anchor, emphasizing Ruffin’s unwavering commitment to his love. The simplicity of the lyrics, coupled with the song’s soulful arrangement, allows Ruffin’s impassioned vocals to take center stage, conveying the depth of his love and his determination to weather any storm together.
“Hold On (To My Love)” has become a beloved soul anthem, covered by numerous artists, including Luther Vandross, The Temptations, and Michael Bolton. The song’s message of enduring love and resilience continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless classic that has stood the test of time.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Eddie Holland, Brian Holland, and Lamont Dozier.
- It was released in 1966 as a single from Jimmy Ruffin’s album Jimmy Ruffin Sings Motown Hits.
- The song reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the Billboard R&B Singles chart.
- “Hold On (To My Love)” has been covered by numerous artists, including Luther Vandross, The Temptations, and Michael Bolton.