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What Becomes of the Brokenhearted ?

**What Becomes of the Brokenhearted? Exploring the Timeless Melody of Heartbreak**

In the vast landscape of soul music, few songs capture the raw emotion of heartbreak as poignantly as *What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* by Jimmy Ruffin. This timeless ballad, first released in 1966, has resonated with listeners for decades, offering solace to those who have experienced the pain of a broken heart. Let’s dive into the story behind this soulful classic and explore its enduring legacy.

### The Origins of a Soulful Anthem

*What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* was written by William Weatherspoon, Paul Riser, and James Dean. Recorded by Jimmy Ruffin, the song was released on Motown Records’ Soul label in the summer of 1966. It quickly climbed the charts, becoming Ruffin’s biggest hit and his only entry in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making it a staple of the soul music genre.

The song’s title itself poses a poignant question: what happens to those whose hearts have been shattered by love? Through Ruffin’s powerful vocals, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the pain and struggle of moving on after a breakup. Lines like, *”I know I’ve got to find some kind of peace of mind, maybe,”* evoke a sense of hope amidst the heartache, encouraging listeners to seek healing and new love.

### The Emotional Journey of the Lyrics

The lyrics of *What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* are a testament to the universal experience of heartbreak. Ruffin’s emotive delivery brings to life the pain of lost love, the loneliness of being alone, and the yearning for a new beginning. The song’s narrative is both personal and relatable, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever felt the sting of a broken heart.

The song’s structure is simple yet powerful, with Ruffin’s voice carrying the weight of his emotions. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, such as, *”The roots of love grow all around, but for me, they come a-tumbling down.”* This metaphor captures the fragility of love and the inevitable pain that comes with its loss.

### Covers and Interpretations

Over the years, *What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. One of the most notable covers is by Joan Osborne, whose version, released in 2003, brought the song to a new generation of listeners. Osborne’s soulful rendition pays homage to the original while adding her own emotional depth to the lyrics.

The song’s universal themes have also inspired its use in various forms of media. For example, the 1999 New Zealand film *What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?* draws its title from the song, reflecting its emotional core and the enduring power of its message.

### A Legacy of Heartbreak and Healing

*What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of the human experience. It speaks to the pain of losing love, the loneliness of heartbreak, and the hope of finding healing and new love. Through its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song has become a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the ache of a broken heart.

Jimmy Ruffin’s *What Becomes of the Brokenhearted* is a testament to the power of music to comfort and inspire. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope for healing and new beginnings. As the song’s lyrics suggest, the brokenhearted may walk in shadows, but they also carry the resilience to find light again.

So, the next time you find yourself searching for solace in the face of heartbreak, remember the words of Jimmy Ruffin: *”What becomes of the brokenhearted? They find their way to love again.”*