Hawkins formed the band while studying physical education at the University of Arkansas. In 1958, Hawkins moved to Canada with The Hawks and made Peterborough, Ontario, his permanent home. Gradually the members of The Hawks, except for Levon Helm, were replaced with talented Canadians Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel and Garth Hudson; this was the line-up that was to later become The Band.
The lineup of The Hawks was ever-changing, with Hawkins' keen recruiting that led to former members forming well-known acts that, in addition to The Band, included Full Tilt Boogie Band, Crowbar, Skylark, and solo success of members like King Biscuit Boy and Gowan.
Ruby Baby
Ronnie Hawkins & The Hawks Lyrics
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She don't love me, but I love her just the same (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
Whoa, oh, give me lovin', honey too
I'm gonna give it all to you
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I've got a gal and Ruby is her name (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
She don't love me, but I love her just the same (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
Just like a ghost, I'm gonna haunt you
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? Yeah (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I've got a gal and Ruby is her name (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
She don't love me, but I love her just the same (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
Whoa, oh, give me lovin', honey too
I'm gonna give it all to you
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? Yeah (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
The lyrics of "Ruby Baby" by Ronnie Hawkins & The Hawks speak of the singer's love for a woman named Ruby. The repetition of her name throughout the song conveys his infatuation with her. He admits that she does not love him back, but he still loves her just the same. This could be interpreted as a story of unrequited love or as an expression of devotion for someone who is unattainable.
Despite Ruby's lack of affection towards him, the singer begs for her love and promises to give her all of his own. His persistence is demonstrated by the line "Just like a ghost, I'm gonna haunt you," indicating that he will not give up on his pursuit of her. The lyrics suggest a longing for connection and desire for reciprocated love.
The song's upbeat melody and catchy chorus create a juxtaposition with the melancholic content of the lyrics, making it a memorable and iconic song.
Line by Line Meaning
I've got a gal and Ruby is her name (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I am in a relationship with a girl named Ruby and I'm excited to express my affection for her through this song.
She don't love me, but I love her just the same (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
Although Ruby does not reciprocate my feelings of love, I still feel deeply attached to her and cannot let go of my affection.
Whoa, oh, give me lovin', honey too
I'm gonna give it all to you
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I am begging for Ruby's attention and love, offering to give her everything I have to offer in return. I am hopeful that she will eventually fall in love with me too.
Whoa, oh, Ruby, Ruby, I want you
Just like a ghost, I'm gonna haunt you
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? Yeah (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I am persistently pursuing Ruby, metaphorically comparing my actions to a ghost haunting someone. I am determined to win her heart and am desperately waiting for her to become mine.
Ruby, Ruby, when can you be mine? Yeah (Ruby, Ruby, Ruby, baby)
I am desperately repeating my desire for Ruby to be with me, expressing my love for her in the hopes that she will finally give in and fall for me as well.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind