"Ruby, Don't Take Your Love to Town" has been performed more than 3 million times. Mel Tillis, who wrote the song, recently was honored with a special achievement award from Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI), the performing rights organization that collects royalties for performances of his songs. Johnny Darrell scored a Top 10 country hit with "Ruby" in 1967. Two years later, Kenny Rogers and the First Edition reached the pop Top 10 with the tune. 06/11/01