Rankin's insightful songwriting talents have been widely recognized by his peers. For example, his song "In the Name of Love," inspired a very memorable version by songstress Peggy Lee, while his song "Haven't We Met" has been recorded by a number of popular jazz and pop artists including Carmen McRae and Mel Torme. Additionally, Stephen Bishop had a major hit with his song "On and On,” which was a #11 hit in the US in 1977.
His 1976 release, the critically acclaimed The Kenny Rankin Album was recorded live in the studio and paired him up with a sixty piece orchestra that was arranged and produced by the legendary Don Costa. The duo teamed up again in 1980 for the album After The Roses. Throughout the eighties, Rankin concentrated his efforts on live stage shows, Brazilian music, and pop and jazz standards.
Rankin continued to cut pop-flavored jazz and had been preparing to record an album of new material when he became ill a few weeks ago. Recording sessions scheduled with producer Phil Ramone were canceled as his health began to deteriorate.
"That he was still at the top of his game is one of the saddest parts of his passing for me," Denny Stilwell, president of Mack Avenue Records, said in a statement. "He performed the new material in our office over the last few months and his voice was still in its finest form — he sounded absolutely amazing. Our hearts and prayers are with his family."
Rankin summed up his career in a quote from his official website.
"I just feel privileged that I've been allowed to continue in my craft, and I've been encouraged by all the positive feedback I've gotten from people over the years. When someone tells you a song changed their life, or inspired them to look at things in a slightly different way, well, you can't ask for a better reward than that."
That is what songs and music are supposed to do. Rest in peace Mr. Rankin.
Studio albums
Mind-Dusters (1967)
Family (1970)
Like a Seed (1972)
Inside (1975)
Silver Morning (1975)
The Kenny Rankin Album (1976)
After the Roses (1980)
Hiding in Myself (1988)
Because of You (1991)
Professional Dreamer (1994)
Here in My Heart (1997)
A Christmas Album (1999)
Article comments
1 - Helena
Kenny Kankin was among the best -- he is missed...no one has that voice...so pure, so fine...
Good Night Sweet Prince - Go to the Light and make some beautiful music on the other side...I know the angels will be learning from you
2 - anon
I just went to the Paul McCartney concert a few days ago and he sang "Blackbird." I will have to check out Kankin's rendition.