Jimmy Ruffin

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Jimmy Ruffin's career is defined by two monumental hits that transcended generations. What Becomes of the Brokenhearted stands as one of the most covered and sampled songs in soul history, ranking on multiple "Greatest Songs of All Time" lists. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside The Temptations solidified his status as a foundational figure in Motown's legacy. Beyond awards, his impact is measured by the enduring popularity of his music, which continues to resonate with audiences worldwide decades after its release.

AwardsWhile Jimmy Ruffin did not win competitive Grammy Awards during his lifetime, his contributions to music have been recognized through prestigious inductions and honors. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 as a member of The Temptations, acknowledging the shared legacy of the Ruffin brothers. He received numerous lifetime achievement awards from soul music organizations and was recognized by the NAACP Image Awards for his contribution to African American culture.

Honours & Distinctions

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame·1989

Inducted as part of The Temptations for their contributions to rock and roll.

Motown Legend

Motown Records·2000

Recognized as a key figure in the Motown sound and legacy.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Soul Music Organization·2010

Honored for a lifetime of excellence in soul music.

Rankings & Lists

#164

500 Greatest Songs of All Time

Rolling Stone·2021

#12

100 Greatest Soul Songs

VH1·2008

Top 100 R&B Songs of All Time

Billboard·2015

Records & Feats

Longest-Running #1 R&B Hit

Chart Record·1966

What Becomes of the Brokenhearted spent multiple weeks at number one on the Billboard R&B chart in 1966.

Dual Top 10 Success

Career Milestone·1980

One of the few solo artists to achieve two separate #2 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 spanning two different decades (1966 and 1980).