Everyone has there own taste in music as well as there particular genre. For aspiring singers I believe a personal style is a good thing. However, even our own style is more than likely influenced by someone else. A singing idol perhaps. I happen to take influences from Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett and probably most of all David Ruffin. Of course I also at one time leaned a bit toward Joe Cocker and even at one time Greg Allman. But Greg was because I liked his Raspy tone and so it was for Joe Cocker. But thinking about it, doesn't it make sense that I liked Joe Cocker? After all he is so much of Ray Charles. But man,...."David Ruffin." "HE" is what I want to be vocally.

Some singers aspire to sing like Steve Perry or guys like Geoff Tate or Dio. I too admire these guys and they are truly unbelievable. However, it is all a matter of taste. What gives me chills is soul. When you can sing with soul it sends the message home. For me it isn't about how high you can go or how long you can sustain a note but rather how deeply those notes can sink into my soul. Phrasing and tone working hand in hand. Well, of course the voice has to be good too, that goes without saying. But it's that right combination. As I work on my vocals I also work on the right feel and interpretation. That is what I am going for. I'm going for David Ruffin.

So for me personally. I would trade all the big notes or whistle registers or perfect Robert Plant covers or even singing like Adam Lambert or my one time favorite rock singer Mr Geoff Tate himself for half of David Ruffin. I'd give anything to sing like him.

Sorry for the long lead in. I only meant to post the video....hahaha. I came across this purely by accident and found it interesting. he was a troubled man and many thought of him as an asshole. I try to forgive that and only focus on the talent. My wife hates when i sing and try to copy his body language/movements.....lmao! I hope someday someone says "hey...you know who you remind me of....?"

Isn't it something that David Ruffin and I share the same Birthday? Next is (hopefully) unlocking the spirit in me.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ms3gTX3rJw