Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, and the mention of certain words or phrases in song lyrics can add depth and meaning to the music.
“Ruby” is a unique and beautiful name that has been used in song titles by artists across a range of genres.
For many, it may be just a name, for others a precious gem that might remind them of the lips of a beautiful woman.
Whatever the reason rubies have been quite an inspiration for many, and here are some great songs that prove it.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and memorable songs that feature “Ruby” in the title.
From classic hits to modern chart-toppers, we’ve got you covered with a diverse selection of tunes that are sure to get you humming along.
So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey through the world of “Ruby”!
1. Ruby Tuesday – The Rolling Stones
Everyone knows that the Rolling Stones were the original bad boys of rock n’ roll.
Regardless, they’ve never had a problem showing off their softer side from time to time, from the sparse arrangement, and odd instrumentation (certainly some classical influence; maybe the Beatles were rubbing off on the Stones).
The lyrics are about Linda Keith, Keith Richards’ girlfriend at the time.
This track was released in 1967 as a double A-side, along with another classic “Let’s Spend The Night Together”.
2. Hey Miss Ruby – Conway Twitty
We move along to this boogie-woogie-flavored track from one of the original kings of country music.
However, there’s no mistaking the influence of Sun-era Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Chuck Berry.
The lyrics and arrangement are typical for that genre; an up-tempo rocker where the protagonist professes his love for Miss Ruby.
A hidden gem from when rock and roll was young.
3. Ruby’s Stool – Lorretta Lynn
We move to Twitty’s partner in crime, Loretta Lynn for another up-tempo tune.
If Conway’s was rock n’ roll, Loretta is pure classic country.
From her 2018 album Wouldn’t It Be Great, there’s no mistaking her opinion of ol’ Ruby, a woman she has great disdain for breaking Bill’s heart, and all the ways she would like to take revenge on her (with humorous results).
4. Ruby – Kaiser Chiefs
We move on to a great rocker from the English band the Kaiser Chiefs.
This track, from their 2007 album Yours Truly, Angry Mob, is about a cool girl that is a bit unapproachable, much like that one girl that everyone knew in school.
The song was the Kaiser Chiefs’ first British no. 1 single, and it’s easy to see why.
Great riff rock with catchy lyrics and melodies. Rock fans should give this a listen!
5. Rock and Roll Ruby – Warren Smith
A song originally written by the man in black himself, Mr. Johnny Cash, this version was released by Warren Smith in the early 1950s.
This song, like others on this list from that era, follows that classic rock and roll formula, instrumentation, and production.
The lyrics sing of another Ruby, one who dances in a way that catches everyone’s eye and satisfies the protagonist’s soul.
6. Loneliness in Ruby’s Eyes – David Allan Coe
David Allan Coe has had an interesting career, from penning “Take This Job and Shove It” (made famous by Johnny Paycheck) and “Tenessee Whiskey” (made famous by Chris Stapleton), to performing with members of Pantera in the Rebel Meets Rebel project.
However, no one can doubt his songwriting and singing chops with this sweet ballad, where the protagonist describes a woman he still idolizes, though she’s past her prime and carries a reputation.
7. Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town – Kenny Rogers
Country stars can’t seem to get enough of Ruby, including this song by Mel Tillis that has been recorded by the likes of Waylon Jennings and Kenny Rogers.
The protagonist is a paralyzed war veteran whose woman, Ruby, is cheating on him and he laments for her to reconsider, though he would just as well shoot her if he could for her indiscretions.
A somber subject for such an up-tempo song.
8. Play, Ruby, Play – Conway Twitty
Conway Twitty makes his way onto our list one more time with this country rock track from his 1990 album House on an Old Lonesome Road.
The protagonist sings of Ruby, a rock n’ roll piano player seeking fame and fortune but coming up short, though she has no shortage of male fans.
A great country tune on the rockier side of things, showing that Twitty can handle all facets of the genre.
9. Ruby Soho – Rancid
Let’s end this list on a different, giving Rancid, those bastions of punk rock.
But don’t let the genre fool you, the song sings of star-crossed lovers, and she sees her lover leaving.
As with others, the lyrics are a contrast to this upbeat song reminiscent of The Clash.
A nice way to slam dance our way to the end of the list.
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