Today, January 6, 2006, Lou Rawls passed away in Los Angeles, California. For their 1969 “Cloud Nine” album, The Temptations included their psychedelic soul cover of Rawls’ ‘Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing.’ Norman Whitfield produced The Temptations’ version, while David Axelrod handled Lou’s three years prior. 

On November 4, 1966, ‘Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing’ by Lou Rawls peaked at no. 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song also had success on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, peaking at no. 1 on November 11/66. 

‘Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing’ comes from Lou’s “Soulin’” album, and it became his second single to reach the Hot 100 – behind his 1965 hit, ‘Three O’Clock in the Morning.’ On April 24, 1969, The Recording Industry Association of America certified “Soulin’” gold. 

Others who’ve covered ‘Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing’ are Big Maybelle, George Benson, The Soul Children, The Soulful Strings, Jimmy Ruffin, and more.

Stream ‘Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing’ on YouTube today