Introduction to “Common Man” by David Ruffin
David Ruffin, a soulful tenor with a voice that could melt hearts, released his timeless ballad “Common Man” in 1969. This track, a poignant reflection on the struggles and aspirations of the everyday person, remains a cornerstone of the soul music genre.
Background
Ruffin’s emotive delivery of the song’s lyrics, combined with the rich orchestral arrangements and the soulful backing vocals, creates a powerful and moving listening experience. “Common Man” is a testament to Ruffin’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
The song’s introspective lyrics explore themes of hardship, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. Ruffin sings about the challenges faced by ordinary people, such as financial difficulties, social injustice, and personal loss. However, he also emphasizes the importance of hope, perseverance, and the belief in a better future.
“Common Man” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the R&B chart and peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Ruffin’s exceptional talent.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I have dreamed a dream, there a common manAh, hoping to rise to the topI have sworn by my blood as your man, my loveThat one day, I promiseOne day your hurting would stopBut I’ll never never never never changeI never change one single grain of sandOh, thanks to you babyFor just loving a common manI want to thank you this eveningOh, I thought, I thought that I failed you soBut that’s when you turn around and look me in my eyesAnd you let me knowYou said and you said it softlyI didn’t have to worry about being a common manYou said, “David, you don’t have to worry about rising to the top”You said, you said, you said I didn’t have to swear by my bloodBut ah baby, that one day your heartaches would stopThen you put your arms around me and you saidYou never never never never caredIf I never change one single grain of sandYou said, “I love you, babyI love you for just being a common man”For my gratitude just keep on growingYeah, for recognizing me, I thank you babyYeah, for respecting me, yeah I want to thank you, babyFor every time of need, Lord, I thank you babyOh for my gratitude, for respecting me, babyFor just being a common manAh I want to thank you babeIn a time of need, I want to thank you for respecting meIn a time of worry, I want to thank you for calming my troublesOh, I thank you babyThank you honey, for loving a common man like me