Amazing voice one can listen to over and over and over again. You never tire of Kenny Rankin’s sound. Musically it can be said that Kenny Rankin had full control of the rhythm, arrangement and notes; a command that allowed his improvisation to work fully into the piece. A master craftsman and a wonder.

it breaks my heart to know he’s gone from us.i have listened to him over & over again….it’s his cd’s i pick to take with me when i go somewhere..just took him to the grand canyon with me…..i am so sad for his family & the rest of us….i’m glad i got to hear his inner beauty & talent once live….especially his accapela rendition of because of you…i’ll never be the same….

His was the most beautiful voice I’ve ever heard – his songs can begin my day on a happy note or send me to a restful night’s sleep while amazing me with his range and his emotion. My “dream” was to see him in concert, but I’ll continue to cherish his voice through his many records. This is so sad, but what an amazing legacy. Thanks, Kenny, for all of it.

Finally now we all know ! Duh !

Now Let’s all concentrate on Adam’s great talent and let him perform.

Adam? A mere child. He needs to learn from artists like Kenny. Grow up!!!

Check him out on you tube……r.i.p. Kenny.

This November would’ve marked 37 years since I saw Kenny in concert for the first time, opening for George Carlin at the Palace Theater in Manhattan. I’ve been a fan all these years, and I can’t believe he’s gone. At least his beautiful voice lives on.

I was fortunate to have seen him in concert many times.

He had the voice of an angel and was a musical visionary. His gift lives on.

I was fortunate to have seen him in concert many times.

He had the voice of an angel and was a musical visionary. His gift lives on.

Also being from the Heights I found a kinship with Kenny and his music. Saw him many times at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano — So Peaceful.

I met Kenny years ago at the Bottom Line in NYC. Nice cat !! He recorded a song with Laura Nyro called POLONAISSE which was written by Lauras brother Jan. He was certainly a unique singer. He had his own thing goin’ on, which is what seperated him from the mainstream style. I’ll miss him

with great sadness i heard of his passing his music was a gift from angels above never was without his music from silver morning till now
what a loss his song thru the eyes of the eagle was used at my brothers funeral as a goodbye song recenetly so sad miss u kenny

Just missed an opportunity to see Kenny at Yoshi’s in San Francisco. “The Kenny Rankin Album” produced by Don Costa is a beautiful, lushly orchestrated showcase for his gorgeous voice. A beautiful man, physically, spiritually and musically. I will miss him greatly and regret that I didn’t get to see him one final time. He is/was one of the most under appreciated voices in the annals of music. Thank you for the lovely music Kenny that will live on as you transition onward.

So sad to see you go, Kenny. Your music was part of my life. A beautiful voice like none other.

I treasure the albums he made, thank you Kenny!

So hard to believe that that beautiful voice is no longer to be heard in concert. Have been a fan of his since I first heard him when I was at USC in the 1970’s and have seen him in concert in DC, LA, Huntington Beach, San Juan Capistrano and at a beautiful Valentine’s Day concert here in Honolulu. Met him several times at his concerts and he was always very sweet. He has been a “musical” touchstone for me; his music has gotten me through so many sad times.
Love and aloha to his family; he was so adoring of his children and my heart goes out to them.

I was fortunate to have seen Kenny in concert many, many times in many different venues. He never ceased to amaze me with his range. I most always loved his unique take on the cover songs he recorded better than the originals. I met him on a couple of occasions and he had a great sense of humor as well. I also really wanted to catch him in SF on May 22, but never made it. I’m very sorry I didn’t. He will always live on through his brilliant music and pure voice.

Last year I had pleasure meeting him. He had a beautiful singing voice. My favorite “Spanish Harlem”.
Rest in Peace.

A great loss. After all these years I can listen to his songs and hear something new and fresh. A gentle and passionate voice is stilled. My deepest condolences to his family. Their loss is so much greater than ours.

Kenny, we will love you forever. I made love with my wife all those years ago; even after nearly 40 years of marriage, we still listen to your music to this today. Thank you Kenny forever.

A great loss. After all these years I can listen to his songs and hear something new and fresh. A gentle and passionate voice is stilled. My deepest condolences to his family. Their loss is so much greater than ours.

I am a long time fan from the 70’s when he performed in Boston. We would always try and see him every time he played here.
I will always remember his love of music, how wonderfully he played the guitar and how he spoke so often of his children.

The first song I heard by Kenny was “Here’s That Rainy Day” and so it is.

Dear Adam, I just adore you!You are your own self you don’t care what people think of you and I applaud you for that. I just wish you weren’t gay, but what the heck. I still love your singing and will buy your CD when it comes out. Love from a Fan Geri P

One of the best singers of all time. Anyone who had pleasure of seeing him perform and hearing his outstanding voice will agree. His arrangements were truely brilliant! His voice, sweet and melodic. His music told a story, grabbed you, made you listen and took you along on the journey. Listen to: “Blackbird”, “Creepin” and my favorite “Marie”. RIP Kenny, you will be truely missed

One of the best singers of all time. Anyone who had pleasure of seeing him perform and hearing his outstanding voice will agree. His arrangements were truely brilliant! His voice, sweet and melodic. His music told a story, grabbed you, made you listen and took you along on the journey. Listen to: “Blackbird”, “Creepin” and my favorite “Marie”. RIP Kenny, you will be truely missed

One of the best singers of all time. Anyone who had pleasure of seeing him perform and hearing his outstanding voice will agree. His arrangements were truely brilliant! His voice, sweet and melodic. His music told a story, grabbed you, made you listen and took you along on the journey. Listen to: “Blackbird”, “Creepin” and my favorite “Marie”. RIP Kenny, you will be truely missed

A sad day indeed for me. A big fan of Kenny Rankin. My favorite CD “Professional Dreamer”.

Heaven has a new member of the band.

Bless you!

Kenny Rankin has received the ultimate gift any musician could ever want, and that is to play and sing before the throne of God.

My wife Marilyn and I fell in love with you about the same time we fell in love with each other.
Your music has lifted my spirits in sad times and has made good times better. You are a major inspiration to me. I am so blessed that we got to meet and that I got the opportunity to tell you about MariIyn,who I lost to cancer in 1992. love you and will always hear your healing, beautiful voice singing in my heart. Enjoy heaven!

Love,
Perry lIghtfoot

kenny rankin was sexy and sang like a hip, yet almost timid, horn. his high notes were so reedy and pure. his lower notes were eternally boyish and plaintive. he was so entertaining. and cool looking. i don’t think the record companies really knew what to do with him. his duet with laura or “polonaise” is at once baroque and also a primer on the heart-felt, no limits singing we grew up embracing and exploiting ourselves. i remember seeing kenny at the bottom line; he was the chet baker of folk rock balladeers. no one else, except maybe steely dan really knew how to navigate the realm of perfectly executed flatted fifths and sonorous, minor tone vocal stylings in that genre. oh my god

One of my favorite observations is “It’s a long and winding road,” and I know Kenny would agree. His success and achievements as a musician and artist may not have reached the very highest level, but he was significantly recognized and appreciated indeed. I “met” him in 1975 via Silver Morning, and even last year was checking to see if he had a new release. I have ten Kenny Rankin CDs in my collection, including the Rhino retrospective. That’s more than any other artist. A part of my youth has been cast in stone, its beauty frozen in time.

What a loss. He inspired me musically at a very impressionable age. I aspired to play and sound like him. The best compliment I ever received was when some told me that I sound like this guy named Kenny Rankin. I thought I had arrived. In fact…I was no near as good as him. He had a huge impact on me. I will miss him and grieve his loss. May God bring peace (as his song says) to his family at this time.

I saw him at a benefit concert just a few years ago in the L.A. area after being a fan since the 1970s. His performance was perfection. As perfect at age 60 as age 30. One of my life’s highlights. The voice was always so pure, we tend to forget his excellent guitar work. He did a rendetion of “On Broadway” that night that I wish was on an album for posterity; just incredible. He will live on in his legacy of superb music; I feel lucky to have it in my collection. Deepest sympathies to his family who he featured prominently on album covers and in the art of his songs.

I first saw Kenny as the opening act with an army buddy in 72. I became an instant and lifelong fan. I never took a college final exam without first listening to “Silver Morning”.
My wife fell in love with him as well. We have had the pleasure of seeing him many times live. He was our guy. He brought us so much joy. Thank you for your music. Lord Bless you and your family. Thanks

For years Kenny opened for George Carlin, who also grew up in Washington Heights, as did I. To lose them both so close to each other is both sad and makes me hope I’m not next. That Carlin chose to open his concerts with (and intro tons of people to) Kenny’s truly angelic sound, made you feel like Carlin’s edginess covered a secret hope that the world was sweeter than it is. The planet is a less enjoyable, less authentic place today. RIP, Kenny. (Thanks for getting me through the divorce.)

I had the pleasure of seeing Kenny Rankin play live @ Scullers in Boston on 22nd Jan 2009. He had such a fantastic style and interpretation for songs. He was a unique talent that will be greatly missed.

We saw Kenny Rankin at Blues Alley in Georgetown in the late 80’s. I had been a fan for years and to sit at a front table in that cozy place and spend time listening and watching him work was magical. He was undoubtedly one of the most gifted performers i have seen.

His music was introduced to my by a friend many years ago. As soon as I heard him, I was hooked. My only regret is that I never got the opportunity to see him perform. His voice is like not other and I am so sad that he is gone from us.

Kenny was an amazing vovalist…We saw him at the Tralf in Buffalo New Nork on several occations and feel we were blessed to be able to hear him live…….He will be sorely missed by his fans. He had a very solid base of fans because he was amazing…..

I was fortunate enough to see Kenny Rankin perform at the Bijou Cafe in the 70’s and again about 2-3 years ago at Zanibar Blue here in Philly and his voice was still amazing. I love his music and listen to him regularly at home (especially on Sunday mornings) and on my IPod. My favorites are “Groovin”, “On and On” and “When Sunny Get’s Blue”. I will truly miss his presence. My thougths and prayers go out to his family.

Those who were privileged to see Kenny live know that his performances were an experience not to be missed. His voice was his instrument. His guitar styling was immediately recognizable. What was amazing is that at age 69, when many vocalists have lost their chops many years ago, Kenny’s voice and range were as if it were 35 years ago when I first heard him. Thankfully, we have his music to remember this remarkable talent.

The Best. RIP Kenny! I’ve carried a torch for you since I saw you the first time so long ago!

May you and George Carlin enjoy laughter and music together forever.

Your legacy, my sons are great fans of yours, so your music will live on and on.

I am so sad to hear of this GREAT and grave lost Kenny will always be remembered as a shining star…

I was lucky enough to see him perform in the early 1990’s at the Bottom Line in New York. He was fantastic. My brother had seen him performing in other venues for years and recommended I see him. I never regretted it. Goodbye Kenny – your voice will live on.

My wife and I have seen Kenny so many times we lost count. As a singer we put him up there with Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. Professional Dreamer is by far one of the all time great albums. His live cd at the Bottom Line is truly amazing. I`m 60 years old and can`t stop crying over this. God bless Kenny and his family and may his voice live forever. Bob Dito from Bathgate Ave

Oh so sad….I saw Kenny live in the Philadelphia area so many times beginning in the 70’s at the Bijou and then throughout the years. What a voice…and what a talent. I am so sad for his family, his beloved granddaughter and all his fans – so many of us who loved his music.

I last saw Kenny at the McDavid Studio in Ft. Worth in the spring of 2007. It was an intimate setting with about 200 in attendance. What an amazing performance. Simply Kenny with guitar and piano. Emotional, touching and uplifting. He had an incredible voice that really brought the audience into his songs. God bless him. He will be missed.

I feel so sad that this great musical talent has left us. I first saw Kenny Rankin in Pasaic, NJ, when he opened for George Carlin in the early 70’s, and I became an instant fan. Through the years I saw him so many times, from Avery Fisher Hall, Carnegie Hall, Town Hall (NYC), the Rink at Central Park, and samller venues like the Bottom Line. Whether he played in a gym or a concert hall, the sound of his voice always gave me chills. Its feels like I lost a family memeber.

I feel so fortunate that I had the opportunity to have heard Kenny Rankin live, and once talked to him when he mingled in the audience after a performance.

Kenny, thanks for the memories. The music just got better in heaven.

I have adored Kenny since I first saw him as Janis Ian’s opening act at The Concord Pavilion, 30 or so years agao. He sang on the AMSF show at KGO-TV, I worked on the show and became his friend. My daughter grew up listening to Kenny’s music and I finally brought her to see him at Yoshi’s in Oakland a few years ago. I was looking forward to seeing him in May at Yoshi’s in S.F. but the show was cancelled. Kenny I will miss never seeing you again but will always listen to your music and smile knowing the angels have you to keep them entertained and laughing.

He came to Pittsburgh many times, but not enough. Each time I went to hear his truely unique voice and style; a class alone. If he would have performed every week I would have gone to see him every week. I’ve been a fan for 35 years and will continue to admire his music. His person will be missed, but his soul will live on.

I sang Kenny Rankin songs to my now-grown children as lullabies- My heart aches for those who were lucky enough to be close to this marvelous man- I will always smile when I listen to his songs- His ‘Blackbird” is my favorite- Also loved ‘Creepin’

Just listened to my favorite selections of his with my wife Sat. night..met him before his show at Poor David’s Pub in Dallas once…not too many better than him…a real treasure.

Mourning the death of Kenny Rankin, my favorite singer. What a voice! If you have lost a loved one, I dare you to listen to “What Matters Most” and not get a lump in your throat.

Ah Kenny, how can you be gone? I will miss you beyond words. How will we be able to replace that golden voice? Totally irreplaceable.

I enjoyed Kenny’s music and was thrilled to catch him a few times at The Whole Coffee House at the U of M in the mid 70’s. I will miss the giddy feeling of discovering a new ‘Kenny’ album or cd (almost as much fun as discovering under what category the music store had him placed). I am truly thankful to have a number of his recordings; I think I’ll be moving him up to the top of the stack for awhile….

I still can’t believe he is gone! What a consumate artist, who only got better with age. I was lucky enought to see him perform several times, at the Main Point in Bryn Mawr, PA and over the past several years at Scullers in Boston. I spoke to him about a song I heard only one time on the radio in Philadelphia – a tune called “Polonaise” that he recorded with another gifted singer-songwriter, Ms. Laura Nyro. The song was never released, and I only heard it one time but its beauty stopped me in my tracks. I did find it on Napster once – look for it and listen – it is exquisite – as was Mr. Rankin. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. The world is a less brighter place tonight. Thank you, Kenny. RIP -

Laraine “Buttons” and I fell in love with his voice and each other while attending Brooklyn College in the late 70’s, and while the years have flown by with all the changes life brings, the thread that kept those moments alive, above all others, was the soulful, inspired music of Kenny Rankin. DId I mention we are still in love? It’s a tragic loss that transcends the music and goes straight to the heart…

My regret is not having seen Kenny more than once – at My Father’s Place in Roslyn in 1980. That night Kenny was getting a little annoyed at all the requests being shouted out. Exasperated, I shouted out “Play ‘whatchou’ want to play.” Kenny pointed towards me and said, “That’s a good song -It’s being released by Stevie Wonder.” Everyone laughed. I learned only this afternoon of his passing. My eyes welled with tears. A couple slipped over the edge. I still have the three albums I bought years ago – Silver Morning, Like a Seed, and Inside Kenny Rankin. I feel a great loss! My heart goes out to all his family. God Bless you all.

Words cannot express the sadness I feel for this great loss. My father introduced his music to me when I landed a solo singing Blackbird in my group. He asked if I had heard Kenny’s version. I was 21 at the time and had never heard of him. He begged me to go get his “Peaceful” album and listen to Blackbird. The album changed my life and brought me and my father that much closer. For that, I am forever thankful for his angelic voice and lyrics. You are a true artist and will be greatly missed. Thank you for sharing your amazing talents with us.

This is so freeky. Just today and unknowing about Kenny’s passing, I had my friend and her 3 small kids over. I pulled out my Rankin album that has “Roll Around” on it. Played it three times..the kids loved it and knew it by heart by the third time!! So I tell my husband this story of the kids loving the tune and he say”Didn’t you hear? he died yesterday.
I truly love his music and it will live on. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Sista from the Bronx

I always knew he was a Pro Artist.

What a voice when we first discovered Kenny back in the 1970’s early 1980′. We will always remember seeing Kenny when he was in a Greenwich Village Jazz Club. His sweet voice will be with us always.

I bought a copy of a remaindered “Mind Dusters” by an unknown Kenny Rankin back in 1968, played it, read Johnnny Carson’s liner notes, went back and bought them all out as Christmas gifts. I never grew tired of his unique sound, even as I was unable to put it exactly into words. He will be missed and I am saddened at his passage. R.I.P. Kenny.

My husband and I were fortunate to see Kenny last month in Cincinnati, which turned out to be his final concert. We enjoyed his always beautiful voice, as well as his humor. His voice was exactly as it was back in the mid-70’s, when we fell in love with the “Silver Morning” LP and then Kenny’s other music. We will always cherish his music. It’s shocking to know that he is gone.

I spoke with Kenny a few months ago and he said “very one needs a complete set of Kenny Rankin CD’s. He sent them to me shortly after. What a great artist and a very nice man. You will be missed.

i played more than a dozen shows with kenny thru the years. i loved his voice and his musicality and i’m truly saddened by his passing. i was hoping for another show…
james lee

This past Friday night, I was surfing YouTube and decided to check out some tunes from the 70’s. I hooked onto Kenny’s work and kept playing Killed a Cat over and over. I hadn’t listented to his work for years. When I saw the news today, I was stunned. I had actually looked for concert tickets to go see him in the fall. He was one of my favorites, such a gift to the music world. Peace Kenny!

His interpretation of music was a signature as well as his voice. I will never quit listening to him

His interpretation of music was a signature as well as his voice. I will never quit listening to him

A beautiful voice, and a sincerely great human being. We are all a little bit diminished by his loss. My wife of 39 years and I fell in love with the backdrop of Kenny’s music. Silver Morning is still a pristine classic. Our heartfelt condolences to Kenny’s family.

“Through the eye of the eagle…
take me home…”

Rest in Peace dear friend…

“…what matters most, is that we loved at all.”

I’ve been a fan since 1975 and saw him live several times. The last time was in Hawaii last year and he was as incredible as ever. That voice, that quality of talent comes around rarely. I was just lucky enough to live during the time that I could hear this great musician. My condolences to his family. He spoke about you during his performances. I know you sacraficed time with him when he toured. Thank you for sharing him with his fans. Mahalo and aloha nui loa, Kenny.

“…what matters most, is that we loved at all.”

Thank you Kenny. You are walking through a Silver Morning now. RIP

@JamesLeeStanley – I played with Kenny blah blah blah. So f’ing what? Nice self-plug freelance douche. Get over yourself.

I am deeply saddened with the rest of you. Kenny was special and a true Artist in every sense.
It was a pleasure meeting and talking with Kenny at the Keystone, Palo Alto, CA all those years ago.
Rest easy Kenny – without REGRETS!
Peace and comfort the the Rankin Family.

I’ve been listening to and loving Kenny Rankin since “Silver Morning” was released in the mid-70s. I took my son to see Kenny in Malibu in 2007 and his voice was as dreamy as ever with the same velvety tone and perfect control. I will miss him a lot.

No one was able to change a song so much to make you think he was the original maker of that song. Each year one more of the great ones leaves us with only their recordings to keep are heads above water. My condolences go out to those who had never seen Mr.Rankin perform for they are the ones who wilL never know.

No one was able to change a song so much to make you think he was the original maker of that song. Each year one more of the great ones leaves us with only their recordings to keep are heads above water. My condolences go out to those who had never seen Mr.Rankin perform for they are the ones who wilL never know.

I was fortunate to have seen Kenny early on at the Golden Bear in Huntington Beach, CA. And for years after, I saw him perform several times with his voice still as strong as those times back in the 70’s. I last saw him at the Cerritos Performing Center where he captivated the crowd with his most amazing voice. Luckily, his music will live on and those of us who were lucky enough to have shared a concert event with him will treasure those memories of a true artist. My prayers go to his family.

We will miss Kenny and the magic of his music. From Philadelphia, here’s to the music and the legacy.

Levi Landis
Executive Director
Philadelphia Folksong Society
Philadelphia Folk Festival

Silver Morning took me across the state of Montana (over and over) Celebrate Me Home will remain my favorite.

I want to find good pop music. Help me please.

Great loss 4 everyone

There is no one who can turn a phrase like Kenny. His voice soars and was truly a gift to us all. His music has given me inspiration, comfort, romance and joy! How sad I am today! but how glad I am to have known his music!

Every day I rock my grand daughter to sleep(for the last eighteen months)and the music begins with,”Ladies and Gentlemen Welcome Kenny Rankin.” How will she ever be able to sleep “peaceful” again?I will tell her about you ,and your voice will always echo from the walls of our home.You left us as all great singers do….wanting more!

Kenny may be gone but Logins will carry on. Footloose will always be my favorite song.

Oh man, I love this guy.
His song This Is It still tears me up. Adios Kenny, Logins is on his own now.

I saw him in Houston a few years back, he opened the Rodeo. He brought the house down with the caddyshack song.
Have a safe trip to heaven Bubba, the rock and roll heaven band is waiting for you.

He was one of my reasons for living. One of my greatest gifts to others in this life was having had the privilege of turning others onto his miraculous talent. The world will unlikely ever see or hear anyone that could take the “bluest day and suddenly make it sunny”. I will miss him as to me he was family.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of Kenny Rankin. I saw him in Huntington, NY and the entire audience was mesmerized by his amazing voice and unique style. He will be sorely missed.

I saw Kenny perform with his trio in Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Music Hall when I was in college in early 70s…he mesmorized me and my friends and I followed his career and saw him perform many more times in Pgh and most recently in south side about 4 years ago…he will be missed by me and my wife…does anyone know how we can send his family our sympathy?

I thoroughly enjoyed his concert at The Whole Coffee House at the U of M, in Minnesota, in the 70’s. I was there with my sisters and we all loved his show. The minute I saw news of his passing, I emailed them both to let them know that I was in mourning. We’ve all been on the internet checking out his videos on You Tube and such–I am very grateful to all who have posted on that site. I too have several albums and cds to remember him by. I’ve been singing “Peaceful”, “Haven’t We Met” and “Silver Morning” for the past few days. He really had a lovely soulful voice and will be missed by many. I too want to send my condolences to his family–I’m sure they are aware that his fans share in their sorrow at this difficult time.

Some of the comments are referring to Kenny Loggins, not Kenny Rankin. “This Is It”, “Footloose”,and “Celebrate Me Home” are by Kenny Loggins. If you don’t know the difference between these two very distinct artists, that’s really sad.

I agree with Stampmomster…it is sad that folks are confusing this dynamic singer/songwriter–Kenny RANKIN w/pop star Kenny Loggins…RANKIN was very underrated and had to continue to tour to make a living when he got into his golden years…when I saw him in Pgh. a few years ago, he looked tired…even the media didn’t report his death but had no problem showing headlines about the Miss America fiasco…what a shame!

I saw Kenny Rankin in 1978 at My Fathers Place in Roslyn, NY. He was fantastic. I remember really enjoying the concert and thought he was an amazing talent. I sort of lost touch with his music over the years sadly. I am happy I had the chance to experience him in concert.
He will be missed.

The Boarding House, San Francisco 1976 – Chad Mitchell, the original act, cancelled and Kenny Rankin was the replacement act. Oh my, what fortune…..all the following years of San Francisco performances I was so very lucky to experience. Kenny’s tender, tenor voice taking us each and every time on the wings of the lyric through a bossa nova beat, soulful acoustic guitar, or unique a cappella introductions to songs of perfect love, found love, lost love. Oh, my.

Everything is wrong
And the whole day long
I feel so blue
For the longest while
I forget to smile
Then I found you
Now that my blue days are past
Now that I found you at last
I’ll be loving you always
With a love that’s true, always
La dap la da dap da da

Thank you for the music and the journey, Kenny.

All of these comments & memories of Kenny are touching.Most are about his voice, which like the lyrics of Spanish Harlem, was a beautiful Rose growing out of the concrete of the Heights. But I would like to mention his guitar playing. His use of jazz chords & substitutions were what made those arrangements of other peoples’ songs his own. And the sound of his nylon string guitar perfectly matched his soft and haunting voice. Everytime I pick up one of these guitars I think of Brazil or Kenny Rankin

Logins and Messina were the soundtrack to my youth. Party on Kenny.

I’ll bet Messina is in shock. Kenny was the real talent in the group.

I’ll bet Messina is in shock. Kenny was the real talent in the group.

Kenny Rogers could turn any song into his own. I saw the first edition back in the sixties at the Rink a Dink in Conroe Texas.
He looks so young in that photograph. I wonder if The First Edition are still around.

Never heard of him.

I thought I was dreaming when, at 5 am on Tuesday, my radio/alarm (broadcasting our local NPR station) announced that Kenny Rankin had died on Sunday. Two weeks ago, I told a fellow musician wanting to learn jazz guitar to check out Kenny Rankin and Michael Franks, causing ME to do the same, after so many years. I remembered Kenny’s sweet, unique voice on “Peaceful”, “Blackbird”, and “Penny Lane”, and I absolutely HAD to find him again! Just the evening before, I had received the DVD I ordered (his BET/Jazz Channel performance from 2001)–I *saw* him and marveled at his seemingly effortless guitar style. So, when I heard the news that morning, I thought for sure that I was dreaming. I ended up running to my computer, only to find that I was NOT dreaming. I have been in mourning ever since! Kenny Rankin–gentle soul, musical artist beyond compare–how I will miss you!!! Thank God your music will be a constant reminder of how great you were (and are)! These are bittersweet days…losing you, hearing all the beautiful music you made. Rest in peace.

Kenny will be remembered for his unique saxaphone playing. Some people called it Music for Plants, but I called it love makin music

Kenny will be remembered for his unique saxaphone playing. Some people called it Music for Plants, but I called it love makin music

Kenny will be remembered for his unique saxaphone playing. Some people called it Music for Plants, but I called it love makin music

I saw Kenny years ago in a small place in Sayerville, NJ. After the concert he signed my program…before he signed, he asked me what I would like him to write…he put his head down as I dictated..Dear Alison, I love you, where have you been all my life….he stopped writing and looked up at me howling! Then he kissed me!!! I was in heaven! Kenny, rest in peace and I enjoy the Rock n Roll Band in heaven!

Just say Kenny in a small church in NJ just about a year ago. Sounded wonderful as ever. His music has touched my life in many ways; dating back to about 1981. I’m sad we won’t be able to see him live again, or be amazed by another of his albums. RIP Kenny.

i was privaleged to meet him & sing harmonies w/ him & my girl-group & it was all ad lib, many moons ago in NYC. we admired each other. i saw him again in Miami Fl years ago…he was still great.

RIP Kenny. You had a voice like no other.

The greatest stylist. The Kenny Rankin album has met so much to me. My son called me and told me of Kenny’s passing. I have cried and cried.

I remember as a teen seeing Kenny on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and just falling in love with him. I had to get his album immediately. His voice was like none other and there will never be another quite as unique as his. I feel such sadness hearing of his passing. Didn’t even know he was ill. When I saw him last year, he was so happy to be a Grandpa and sounded just as fabulous as the first time I heard him. Please accept my deepest sympathy to everyone who knew him.

In 1972, I saw Kenny Rankin on the Johnny Carson Show perform “Peaceful” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” His style of guitar playing made such an impact on me, I went and sold all my electric guitars and amps and bought a nylon-string classical guitar (like Kenny’s) and never looked back. My guitar gently weeps again…Rest In Peace, Kenny.

Kenny had a beautiful gift. His voice was unique and instantly identifiable. I wrote a song called Polonaise that he recorded back in 1982 as a duet with my sister, Laura Nyro which was never released. I hope someday it will be as they sound beautiful together. I got know him a bit and liked him. He was a warm person with a fine sense of humor’R.I.P KENNY

The world just lost a true vocal artist. Kenny had a beautiful gift. His voice was unique and instantly identifiable. I wrote a song called Polonaise that he recorded back in 1982 as a duet with my sister, Laura Nyro which was never released. I hope someday it will be as they sound beautiful together. I got know him a bit and liked him. He was a warm person with a fine sense of humor’R.I.P KENNY

My favorite is his version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” on the Stars Come out at Christmas CD. Talk about a unique version. That was Kenny’s gift. You will be missed!

His artistry, his voice, his genius was the inspiration for my love affair that has lasted nearly 30 years. We will miss him as though he were family. May his song be heard in heaven for all those blessed to be there.

His artistry, his voice, his genius was the inspiration for my love affair that has lasted nearly 30 years. We will miss him as though he were family. May his song be heard in heaven for all those blessed to be there.

I also had the pleasure of seeing Kenny Rankin perform at the Main Point in Bryn Mawr, PA in the early seventies… what an amazing voice!

I just listened to While My Guitar Gently Weeps… here’s to you, Kenny!

anyone unable to tell Kenny Rankin from Kenny Loggins can’t tell the difference between the bark of a dog and the meow of cat.

What a terrible loss. Kenny has been on the top of my “best” lists for over 30 years. His music has been with me on vinyl, tape, CD and now IPod. The world of music, and I mean GREAT music, is a little more hollow today. An intricate piece is now missing. May you now sing for the ages, Kenny.

I opened for Kenny a few times when I was a kid and he was always the nicest guy. So talented. Too sad. So long.

Miss you. I’ll hold your music close as always.
Your talent lives forever and is a gift.

Miss you. I’ll hold your music close as always.
Your talent lives forever and is a gift.

i could not believe when my daughter said that kenny rankin passed away.i was in total silence.i could still remember during my discjockeying days i never missed playing his songs what a talent.kenny,thanks for the memories

Had the pleasure to catch Kenny in Chgo. in the late 90’s in a lakefront hotel lounge…his styling, phrasing, and musicianship on the guitar and piano made him a complete master of showmanship. While he never compromised his music, you could hear his message in his song…What Matters Most is a favorite, and Kenny will be joining the other greats who have passed before him in a better place…..Peaceful!

His voice was as good as it gets…I know he’s in a silver morning somewhere and I’m thankful for his album I’ve had since college over thirty years ago…peace be with you Kenny

Kenny had a voice beyond compare. I was hooked from the first time I saw him in SF in 1974. I’ve seen him over a dozen times….and one time that sticks out was an intimate show at Wolfgang’s in SF. Kenny was perturbed at one person in the audience (Kenny had a short fuse) – so he walked off – someone blurted out “you can’t walk out the backstairs of our lives” – he came back and played that very song off this CD. I’d met Kenny a few times over the years and once I handed him a copy of FAMILY on LP – he laughed and said those 2 wonderful girls on the cover are in college now – he signed it and handed it back to me. Always gracious and kind.

I was to see Kenny in SF 2 weeks ago — I was completely stunned to hear of his passing. God Bless Kenny and his family. He is now in a heavenly choir that includes my wife (she died at the age 41 from lung cancer). What matters most is that his music touched our lives.

Steve S. saw him for the 1st time opening for Carlin. Same here…1974 at the Circle Star Th. in San Carlos. Then I saw him the next year at the Boarding House, SF. I went on to see him many more times…Fairmont, SF; Keystone Palo Alto, malls, fairs…you name it. He is deeply missed!!

Today was and is a very sad day for me and all of us who adored this Special Man.He had an outstanding voice with magnificient range. I was a follower since the 70’s.I was fortunate to spend some time with Kenny to get to know who the most important person was to him… in Life…His beautiful grandaughter he was so proud..you will be missed

Kenny’s music healped me and my family heal after the loss of my dear brother Chris’ death at the very young age of 20 in 1985. We listened to the “Kenny Rankin Album” day in and day out for months after our loss. I am so grateful. I’m so glad to have held Kenny’s hand after a concert in the 1990’s. I will never forget his music!!!

June 7th was the day the music died for me and many others. Since the 70’s I’ve been a fan and caught his show whenever he was in the Bay Area. A voice and talent like none other. His music would always help me get through a long, hard day. RIP, Kenny

Fly my intense angle.

With the eyes of an eagle and a voice of a sweet sweet song bird,
Throughout the world, your voice is heard… Lov U

Kenny Rankin

I met Kenny a few years ago at a jazz concert in Jakarta, what most impressed me was his humility and when he played and sang it was almost like he created his own beautiful enviroment around himself.

God Bless and be with you Ken.

I grew up with his music and that is sometrhing nobody will be able to take away from me. he will live within my heart and his songs will be played within my mind so help me God.

Although I’ve been a fan since the 70’s, I’d never seen Kenny perform live. I was blessed to have been at his last public performance -in Cincinnati last month. After the opening act, I went outside to phone our young daughters and say good night. After my call, I beamed with happiness, then had a random, heartfelt conversation with a complete stranger. We talked about children, grandchildren and the joy of love. I returned to my seat and kissed my wife on the cheek. Kenny soon entered the stage and began his remarkably sweet singing. Turns out, this was no stranger after all. Thanks Kenny.

Ditto Bill. I had an amazing experience as well after the concert in Cincinnati with this man I had always wanted to meet but somehow already knew. A precious memory that will always be cherished. Thank you Kenny for taking time for your fans. Now and forever dear man rest in peace.

I learned of Kenny’s passing last night when Laurence Juber dedicated “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” to him. What a beautiful tribute to the man with a voice that went right through me whenever I heard it. Bless you Kenny, you and your family, too.

A fan of Kenny since the 70,s, I saw
him live for the first time just a few months ago in Connecticut.I
beamed as the first few notes slid out, his voice was perfect. I always considered him one of the greatest singers alive. now change that to “ever”. A musicians musician, I think he was a trumpet in a past life.
We chatted during the break, he signed my cd’s,…..I’m truly shocked….he will be missed by so many. Rest in peace

I was told tonight about Kenny’s passing, and prayed that it wasn’t him. What an enormous loss to the musical world. My mom (now 79) and I chased his concerts around in the 80’s, she (all 4′11″) of her muscled her way to the front seat at the Golden Bear once to be as close as possible. Cherish the live performances we caught….treasure the recordings we have. When Sunny Gets Blue…God Bless You Kenny and God Bless Your Family…

Absolutely my favorite singer…ever!

R.

A master! His voice still floats and gives my heart songs of love. Thank you Kenny. R.I.P.

Kenny,I’ve always adored your style and how you can turn a good song into a much better version.You are a part of my life,my soul and my humanity.You are a virtuoso and have been a huge influence in my musical career.When i saw you perform in Manila I was in tears,never expecting that I’d see you perform live.Your passing has been a shock and you’ll surely be missed.Thank you for all the wonderful music and the memories it brought me. I will always cherish them for the rest of my life…Rest in Peace,my friend….

I was horrified to hear of his passing a week after. My heart just sunk. He is the only one I ever wrote a fan letter to. That was the 70’s and I saw him at the Golden Bear in Huntington Bch, CA, twice.
He mesmerized me from his first song to his last. R.I.P. sweet prince.

I worked a show with Kenny Rankin back in the mid 70’s in NY … he was tempremental before the show but when he got on stage all was forgiven … a unique talent, voice and arranger … have played his music almost weekly for 30 years since … too bad he is not better known (the Kenny Loggins comments above as evidence …oy) … many more shoul have appreciated his voice and style … RIP Kenny.

“And he talks to you with his music. He makes love with his music.

From “Stringman”

Kenny, if ever you humbly doubted your rarified position as one of America’s greatest vocalists of the last century, this outpouring of love by your thousands of loyal fans should put that to rest. Take solace, your music will live on for generations to come.

I live in Montreal Canada. The first time I heard Kenny Rankin was in the early 70s. I was listening to a local radio statio, CJAD, and they played Havent we met. I stood there and was transfixed. I called the radio statio and asked the name of the artist they had just played. I had never heard the name before. I bought all his recordings and my family and I became great fans.I could never figure out why he had never made it to become a household name in the music business. I still dont understand it. I have a feeling he just did not want that. Just found out now that he passed away. I am shocked. I guess that rainy dat is here.

I come from Montreal, Canada. I am an old lady of 75. The first time I heard Kenny Rankin was on a local radio station in Montreal (CJAD) in the early 70’s I think. They played “Haven’t we Met?”I just stood there transfixed at the perfection of it all. What was different was that no matter how much he would deviate (what musicians call “blow”) from the melody, he had an instinctive knowledge of the chord structure and would always land at the right place. Singers take a chance doing all kinds of contortions (especially nowadays) but most of them are not musical enough to know how to manage this. Even the most famous ones. I called the station to ask who it was and the name Kenny Rankin meant nothing to me. I had been a jazz singer in my earlier life and am the widow of a famous and respected jazz musician. I knew many names of great musicians, but not that one. I have bought all his albums and kept wondering (along the years) why he was just not making it (and I don’t mean musically). I later heard from different sources that he had been struggling with dependency on miscellaneous substances. It happens so often to those who have the most talent. Maybe that accounts for the reason he never became a household word. At least his illness was not long. Still I see that many greats of music did recognize his genius. Here’s that rainy day, I thought.

Man! I got turned onto Kenny while at Allegheny College in 1979…being a guitarist myself, i was artistically searching for my voice musically. When I heard Kenny’s “Sunny…”, and “{Haven’t We Met” more pieces of the puzzle fell into place for me! Thus, I am eternally grateful to Kenny and I am proud to consider myself a part of his legacy…as a matter of fact, being an educator allows me to extend Kenny’s musical legacy to my students. Kenny’s music will live on thru us. Any time someonetouches your heart or impacts your life in a positive way, it is a gift from God! Thank God for the gift of Kenny Rankin! Devoted fan Steve Brown

I remember listening to Kenny back in my college days. The sweet sounds of his tenor voice, along with his guitar were part of the soundtrack of my younger years. I had the chance to see him perform in NYC about 10 years ago and he sounded as good as ever. Very sad to hear that he is no longer with us.

Kenny Rankin was a one of a kind artist. His voice was like an angel. May he rest in peace!

What a huge shock to hear of kenny’s passing. It was so great to see him live because his musicianship, his huge vocal range,and perfect pitch was undiminished all thoughout his life. He truly opened his heart and let you see the innermost feelings of heartbreak, regret, joy and thankfulness. I thank you Kenny for all the joy you have given me and will continue to give us all by passing on your musical legacy.

Very, very sad and shocked to hear that he passed away.
Was going to see him at Blues Alley last year but never made it, and also upstate.
Always hoped to see him and meet him personally, did get to see him in Huntington, N.Y. many years ago at least and he was funny, warm, soulful and amazing.
I just found out he died last night (7-12-09) didn’t even know it’s been over a month.
He inspired my cabaret acts and he will forever be in my soul.

i met kenny rankin at fat tuesday’s back in the 80’s and was delighted to have the opportunity to sit in the diner and ask him all the questions i could think of from one singer to another.
i used to sing harmony with his records on every car trip i ever took from montauk to boston through out my younger years! a tremendous loss.

i met kenny rankin at fat tuesday’s back in the 80’s and was delighted to have the opportunity to sit in the diner and ask him all the questions i could think of from one singer to another.
i used to sing harmony with his records on every car trip i ever took from montauk to boston through out my younger years! a tremendous loss.

i met kenny rankin at fat tuesday’s back in the 80’s and was delighted to have the opportunity to sit in the diner and ask him all the questions i could think of from one singer to another.
i used to sing harmony with his records on every car trip i ever took from montauk to boston through out my younger years! a tremendous loss.

We have lost a truly great artist. Kenny Rankin caught my ear in the early ’70s, and it wasn’t with “Peaceful”. As great as that tune was, his other originals were even better. But the thing that he was an absolute master at – the best – was re-interpreting standards, re-constructing the chordal framework, re-setting the material, and breathing clear fresh new breath into it. No one could do that the way he does. His musicianship was impeccable – both instrumentally and vocally. His voice? That of an angel. His voice control? Unbelievable. Listen to his original version of “Haven’t We Met?” and the scat in it. He has greatly influenced my writing and arranging since I first came across his music. When I had the opportunity to meet him, I’m afraid that he was not in shape to do so, and so an opporunity was missed – and I shall always regret that. His passing is truly a sad event. On the other hand, he has left this incredible music behind for all of us to enjoy for many, many years to come. I never get tired of his music, and now I am handing it down to my children. Kenny – God bless. May the Lord open His arms, embrace your soul, and welcome you into His Kingdom.
Paul W. Sammarco, Ph.D.
Composer, Arranger, Producer,
P&J Records (LLC)

He was the best!!!!!! Better than George Harrison on My Guitar Gently Weeps, better than Johnny Mathis on When Sunny Gets Blue. Silver Morning was the best post-break-up album ever!!! I saw Kenny in the Village in the early 80’s, and he looked even better than he sounded. My sympathy to his family – they’ve lost the man they loved. He will live on for his fans in the music they loved him for.

He was the best!!!!!! Better than George Harrison on My Guitar Gently Weeps, better than Johnny Mathis on When Sunny Gets Blue. Silver Morning was the best post-break-up album ever!!! I saw Kenny in the Village in the early 80’s, and he looked even better than he sounded. My sympathy to his family – they’ve lost the man they loved. He will live on for his fans in the music they loved him for.

This is no reflection on Kenny’s music.I was going through a box full of vynyl album’s in a junk store in London,in 1976 and came across Kenny’s album Inside,had no clue who he was,but took a chance.It changed my concept of singing forever.You opened my heart like no other and helped me understand how to share .The Kenny Rankin Album is one album that my son and I sing along to .I’m deeply saddened at your passing,but find sollace in all the beauty you left us.

I am thankful to a good friend, Granville “Granny” Wood who introduced my first husband Ron Candy and myself to the wonderful world of Kenny Rankin many, many moons ago. In fact we fell very deeply in love to the lyrics and pureness in this great artists music. I was so very, very sad to hear of his passing. The end of an era really…Kenny’s music will live on in our hearts forever…his music encompassed a true “lighness and wholehearted spirt” I have yet to come across in any other’s music, perhaps Jessie Colin Young, but other than that, I can think of no one who captured the very essence of purity in sound, lyrics and presentation than this man did. So very, very sad that we will here no new fine works from this soul. Prayers and condolences to his family and know that he was deeply revered and greatly loved for that which he gave to the world. I will always remember my first, true love and all the wonderful trappings that went with it…because of Kenny Rankin and his music. Fondly remembered and always listened to…Carolann E. Candy, Millet Alberta, Canada.

God, I will always love him and his beautiful crafts even he had passed us away. ‘Hiding Inside Myself’ is so beautifully sad, melancholic, and only Kenny can give a true passion and emotion such like that in a song .

Ya, It’s what matters most, that we & we being the beings loved at all, missin ya, Brynn

kenny caught the garter i threw at my wedding. he was a good friend but such a great singer and composer. I will miss him. he asked me to help him shop for a tuxedo when he got married and i drove him around to buy one that day. he sang in my car and i’ll never forget it.

I became an adoring fan of Kenny’s when WMGK in Philly began playing “Sunday Kind of Love” around ‘77 or so. After that, I saw him every chance I could, in venues all around NY (Bitter End, Bottom Line, Town Hall, and that funny little place up in PIermont, etc, etc) and for the last time, at the Sellersville Theater in Bucks County, PA–a wonderful concert where he graciously signed CDs. I love all his amazing renditions of some of our best songs, but my favorites may be “Around Midnight” or “House of Gold. In the early 90s, we met and chatted briefly in the Pittsburgh Airport while changing planes and he trusted me to watch over his guitar while he went for a newspaper! I was so thrilled! And that must have given him a chuckle …

I still hear his voice playing in my head.

Kenny, I know I’ll hear you singing and playing in another place someday.

Listening to Silver Morning and wanted to connect. His music touches my heart and soul.

I became a huge Kenny Rankin fan when I attended Chico State in the mid-70’s and have been ever since. Never got to see him perform live but always kept his albums, tapes and CDs close by and “listened to” often. They were my comfort when I was in the Army and stationed in Korea for a year in the early 80’s and spent quite a bit of time alone. Kenny was also my lifeline & source of sanity for the year (1990) I was stationed in Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm. My favorite songs – Haven’t We Met; Why Do Fools Fall in Love; Sunday Kind of Love; When Sunny Gets Blue; Killed a Cat; The very Thought of You; In the Name of Love. Blessings Kenny – our loss is definitely Heaven’s gain.