Description David Eli Ruffin (born Davis Eli Ruffin,[1] January 18, 1941 June 1, 1991) was an American soul singer and musician most famous for his work as one of the lead singers of the Temptations (196468) during the group's 'Classic Five' period as it was later known. He was the lead voice on such famous songs as 'My Girl' and 'Ain't Too Proud to Beg.'