If there were one genre I wish my knowledge was stronger, it would be without a doubt – the timeless, heartfelt, make you realize everything is alright – sound of soul. When we look for new music, either brand-new or old, don’t we hope to spin that record a year from now; maybe even five years from now? Or what about close to 30 years later?
Potentially long story condensed: David Ruffin, the lead vocalist who propelled the Motown act The Temptations into stardom with “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Bed” concocted a monster of a record in 1971; but for some reason, it was shelved – until only a few years ago. The Unreleased Album slides nicely into any soul guru’s stack of records, or sets a great base for any wannabe collector, like myself. I want to share his rendition of The Jackson 5′s “I Want You Back”. The song comes alive by Ruffin, but that’s maybe because it feels more sincere coming out of an adult’s mouth and not a child’s….
David Ruffin :: I Want You Back
And a little taste of what else lurks on this LP…
Possibly the greatest Jackson Five cover ever. David Ruffin was a genius. If you haven’t seen The Temptations film see it now! That’ll teach you a little about soul