Found Kenny around 1970... Loved his music through the 70s when I was young and loving... Saw him in person much later on at Ramapo College, and was pleased to finally see the man from the LPs. Wanted to see him again, went to the web, and found out that he passed on. Wish I knew him, to thank him for some wonderful, loving, thought-provoking tunes for a young guy back then, trying to find the right girl. Listening to him brings back so many feelings, memories. Thanks Kenny.
Thanks so much to jazzyfrank for the Kenny uploads. I turn 60 in 4 mos., & Kenny is still my all-time favorite singer since I first discovered him around 40 yrs. ago. I cannot imagine a more beautiful voice, feel very lucky to have seen him in person on 2 occasions. With these uploads, we can still continue to hear him. I can't believe he's been gone 2 yrs. now.
I was fortunate to see Kenny a dozen times between 1973 and 1995. He was the best male vocalist I ever heard. That's just my 'untrained ear' opinion. 1 Kenny story I'll share comes from a show he did at Wolfgang's in SF around 1980 (give or take a few) - as many of you know Kenny had a short fuse. A guy heckled Kenny towards the end of his set and kenny got up and started walking off the stage - we yelled out "Don't walk down the backstairs of our lives!!" - KR came back and played it !!
The last time we saw him was in Vegas where he introduced out of the audience one of his great friends Danny Gans, Las Vegas Entertainer of Year. The fact that Gans died unexpectedly a month before Kenny is unbelievable.
This video encapsulates a typical Kenny Rankin concert: humor, mischievous audience interplay, and a comfortable, relaxed ambience combined with an awesome display of song interpretation, songwriting ability, and vocal and guitar talent.
mmmbrix--you are so right. I rank Mr. Rankin right up there with Miss Sarah Vaughan and Miss Billie Holiday as one of the finest interpreters and performers of my age. I had the pleasure of meeting him in the mid-70's following his concert. The only thing I could think of to say was: " Thanks, Kenny, for sharing a very special gift with the rest of us. He was quiet, gracious. He was also one of a kind. I miss him. Peace, and a restful heart and spirit Kenny. Your gift will never die.
I always marveled at Kenny's abilities for the past 35+ years...both voice and guitar...Found out toonight when watching the Grammies that he died this past year...SUCKS
It was only now that i knew that Kenny Rankin passed away. This guy soothed me a lot of times when i'm distressed. I listen to his music more than I've listened to other singers. His soothing voice will live on.
What a wonderful example of the genius that was Kenny Rankin - such an artist. Still can't grasp the notion that he's no longer with us, but so thankful he was here and gave us such a masterful legacy. As the expression goes, we shan't see his like again...may you rest in peace, sweet Kenny.
Have heard the name for years, but not much more. Just started looking into his music after the Alec Baldwin piece on the Huffpost. I love it. This guy is the real deal.
By the way, would you happen to know if this concert was the one on Sept. 10th? That is my birthday and I do remember seeing him at the mansion on that day. I even have a t-shirt somewhere from it. Such wonderful memories of a spectacular voice!!!
I was at this concert - I live in Montebello, NY and this was at the Mansion at Montebello owned by financier Gary Goldberg. I was there with my husband and then 5 year old son. I had 102 fever but would never miss his concerts! He was a reason my husband and I first got together - we both loved his music while none of our friends had ever heard of him! We used his version of "You are so beautiful" for our wedding song! I am very very sad today - he will be greatly missed!!!
R.I.P. Kenny, his spirit will live on forever through his wonderful heartfelt songs and his beautiful voice, thanks for enriching my life with your music..
HI not sure of the spelling of the place but it was in NY at Montabella Park it was at a mansion , i think the man who runs it last name was Goldberg and it was in 1988, in fact they ask me for some footage of his performance which i did , been following him around for well over 25 yrs.he will be missed !!!!!
How about a video of him doing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps?" I saw him live in the Village years ago and he did his rendition of that song that is so moving that I think I like it even more than George Harrison's.
DiValenti I agree, I like Kenny's version better. Same for Blackbird. I can't tell you how heartbroken I I am over his death. This was such a shock. He was truly one of a kind.
If you get Kenny's DVD. Probably available on Amazon. He does a great version of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" with a streing quartet. A must for any Kenny fan.
I love Haven't We Met and Why Do Fools Fall in Love:):):)***!!! Kenny Rankin you have such a magical voice,Loamo:):):) "Chin Chin" Chente Anni Salute Ciao:):):)
Wow...Thanks so much for posting this! This really shows what an awesome talent Kenny Rankin is. In early 1974, I saw him on tv (The Midnight Special); he played Haven't We Met and Why Do Fools Fall in Love. The next day, I sold all my electric guitars, amps, etc. and bought a nylon-string classical guitar and never looked back.
Kenny is the model of a real performer who sounds the same whether it's the record or it's live. With just a bare nylon guitar and his cool voice, you've got pure unadulterated entertainment.
Thanks for posting. I remember way back when my mother would listen to him almost everyday, and it was hard for me to listen to then, as it is now because it's almost too good, and too emotional. Oh, and I'm a sensitive baby (and a dude).
There's no "studio" remixing to make him sound perfect. (As I imagine Janet Jackson uses). The fact that he can stop, stand to make a joke, then resume exactly in tune = AMAZING!
do you have more of this performance. I love the earlier stuff. some one had posted some REALLY early stuff, which was also amazing, but I think this one shows more of his personality and showmanship and his ease in playing, and the way he likes to improv riffs and licks. I'd love to see more
Thank you JazzyFrank for posting this clip! I have followed Kenny since 1970. He has so many great songs. One of my favorites is "I Love You." When he performed at Blues Alley in D.C., I wrote Kenny a note prior to the show asking him to play the tune, since I was a newlywed at the time. He didn't play the tune, but everything else he played was excellent. I think I asked him again at the Birchmere in Arlington and he gave me a weird look...oh well, I tried. Enjoyable video!
He has Auto-tune on his throat..
FrenchFriesPeople 2 months ago
Found Kenny around 1970... Loved his music through the 70s when I was young and loving... Saw him in person much later on at Ramapo College, and was pleased to finally see the man from the LPs. Wanted to see him again, went to the web, and found out that he passed on. Wish I knew him, to thank him for some wonderful, loving, thought-provoking tunes for a young guy back then, trying to find the right girl. Listening to him brings back so many feelings, memories. Thanks Kenny.
ljpish 4 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Oh My God ...
rodyrod22 5 months ago
Thanks so much to jazzyfrank for the Kenny uploads. I turn 60 in 4 mos., & Kenny is still my all-time favorite singer since I first discovered him around 40 yrs. ago. I cannot imagine a more beautiful voice, feel very lucky to have seen him in person on 2 occasions. With these uploads, we can still continue to hear him. I can't believe he's been gone 2 yrs. now.
althecatify 7 months ago
he sounds like his singing in his nose but 8s not annoying at all and still powerful.... i wish i can sing like him....
iyot1020 9 months ago
wow...has there ever been a better pop singer
JoeyPencils 1 year ago
Makes me cry listening to him tonight. The voice of an angel. Gone too soon.
MorganHillChristine 1 year ago
God Bless You, Kenny. You were one of the most angelic and talented voices around....I truly miss you at Piermont!
DionisiaDP 1 year ago
I was fortunate to see Kenny a dozen times between 1973 and 1995. He was the best male vocalist I ever heard. That's just my 'untrained ear' opinion. 1 Kenny story I'll share comes from a show he did at Wolfgang's in SF around 1980 (give or take a few) - as many of you know Kenny had a short fuse. A guy heckled Kenny towards the end of his set and kenny got up and started walking off the stage - we yelled out "Don't walk down the backstairs of our lives!!" - KR came back and played it !!
rpdugoni 1 year ago
The most soothing male voice...EVER...highly underrated, in my opinion. Vocal genius, teaches me that the voice is truly an instrument.
sbrownie 1 year ago
Simply beautiful. It's a dream to sing like him.
tsuyoshiNYC 1 year ago
Kenny died one year ago today. Thank heaven we have his music and these clips to remember him by.
PattiG114 1 year ago 3
Rest in peace, Kenny, you've done a lot to calm a soul in times of distress, thanks much
felixdelacruz 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
The last time we saw him was in Vegas where he introduced out of the audience one of his great friends Danny Gans, Las Vegas Entertainer of Year. The fact that Gans died unexpectedly a month before Kenny is unbelievable.
This video encapsulates a typical Kenny Rankin concert: humor, mischievous audience interplay, and a comfortable, relaxed ambience combined with an awesome display of song interpretation, songwriting ability, and vocal and guitar talent.
buzword 1 year ago
Comment removed
buzword 1 year ago
mmmbrix--you are so right. I rank Mr. Rankin right up there with Miss Sarah Vaughan and Miss Billie Holiday as one of the finest interpreters and performers of my age. I had the pleasure of meeting him in the mid-70's following his concert. The only thing I could think of to say was: " Thanks, Kenny, for sharing a very special gift with the rest of us. He was quiet, gracious. He was also one of a kind. I miss him. Peace, and a restful heart and spirit Kenny. Your gift will never die.
butfulmuzik 1 year ago
One of the most amazing entertainers to ever grace the planet...
mmmbrix 2 years ago
I always marveled at Kenny's abilities for the past 35+ years...both voice and guitar...Found out toonight when watching the Grammies that he died this past year...SUCKS
Bless you Ken
SMSHCT55 2 years ago
thank you for this rare footage
savannahsmyles 2 years ago
It was only now that i knew that Kenny Rankin passed away. This guy soothed me a lot of times when i'm distressed. I listen to his music more than I've listened to other singers. His soothing voice will live on.
owiej616 2 years ago
q.e.p.d. mr.Rankin,go in peace,and all the beatiful songs you´ve given us,will stay as a vivid reminder of your impeccable artistry.
aljopa 2 years ago
listen to the sound of humanity's best..Kenny's soul will inspire forever..thank you Almighty ..!!
Wacokid48 2 years ago
Comment removed
Wacokid48 2 years ago
Glad we get to enjoy this little moment. Love and miss you Kenny Rankin. :)
papilio109 2 years ago
Comment removed
MickeyT54 2 years ago
thats one bad dude......
mezzie85 2 years ago
great song, great musician.. we'll trully missed. RIP K.Rankin
abillano 2 years ago
I love you and will miss you.
GuitarUTube 2 years ago
Damn gonna miss you Kenny! You inspired me so much! safe travels sir...
tommyvizzle 2 years ago
A true Artist!
ManagerGuy1 2 years ago
i love hiding inside myself... rip mr. rankin
linardp3 2 years ago
What a wonderful example of the genius that was Kenny Rankin - such an artist. Still can't grasp the notion that he's no longer with us, but so thankful he was here and gave us such a masterful legacy. As the expression goes, we shan't see his like again...may you rest in peace, sweet Kenny.
HValleyGirl 2 years ago
Deeply missed ! I saw Kenny 20+ times from 73 to 2005. A voice beyond compare.
rpdugoni 2 years ago
R.I.P. God Bless You, Kenny Rankin
donnyob123 2 years ago
very very wonderful style, voice, and guitar....don't leave us!
songsforyou00 2 years ago
awesome voice...luv you.
lilfriedegg 2 years ago
Have heard the name for years, but not much more. Just started looking into his music after the Alec Baldwin piece on the Huffpost. I love it. This guy is the real deal.
sfkjeld 2 years ago 2
Sad news; rest in peace, Kenny, you were unique and highly talented - your music lives on thru these vids, lp's etc.
soundslikefrank 2 years ago
A gentle and beautiful spirit....thank you for your gift of music, Kenny.
vibrani 2 years ago
Ok - sorry to monopolize this, but I found the t-shirt - it was September 10, 1989 - "Music at the Mansion"
LynneRoCo 2 years ago
By the way, would you happen to know if this concert was the one on Sept. 10th? That is my birthday and I do remember seeing him at the mansion on that day. I even have a t-shirt somewhere from it. Such wonderful memories of a spectacular voice!!!
LynneRoCo 2 years ago
I was at this concert - I live in Montebello, NY and this was at the Mansion at Montebello owned by financier Gary Goldberg. I was there with my husband and then 5 year old son. I had 102 fever but would never miss his concerts! He was a reason my husband and I first got together - we both loved his music while none of our friends had ever heard of him! We used his version of "You are so beautiful" for our wedding song! I am very very sad today - he will be greatly missed!!!
LynneRoCo 2 years ago
Comment removed
miasgama 2 years ago
R.I.P. Kenny, his spirit will live on forever through his wonderful heartfelt songs and his beautiful voice, thanks for enriching my life with your music..
DjCopious 2 years ago
Rest in peace Kenny....
Wesbound1 2 years ago
HI not sure of the spelling of the place but it was in NY at Montabella Park it was at a mansion , i think the man who runs it last name was Goldberg and it was in 1988, in fact they ask me for some footage of his performance which i did , been following him around for well over 25 yrs.he will be missed !!!!!
jazzyfrank 2 years ago
Hi,
How about a video of him doing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps?" I saw him live in the Village years ago and he did his rendition of that song that is so moving that I think I like it even more than George Harrison's.
DiValenti 2 years ago
DiValenti I agree, I like Kenny's version better. Same for Blackbird. I can't tell you how heartbroken I I am over his death. This was such a shock. He was truly one of a kind.
hollisavenue 2 years ago
If you get Kenny's DVD. Probably available on Amazon. He does a great version of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" with a streing quartet. A must for any Kenny fan.
brubry1 2 years ago
A voice like no other. RIP Kenny.
hollisavenue 2 years ago 2
rest in peace...
his 1 of my idol..
the other guy's name is jason mraz....
toink1972 2 years ago
Rest In Peace.
Your voice and music will live on.
vaughn14151 2 years ago
I love your music the best.
Thank you.
I want to be like you really.
Thank you.
hanechang 2 years ago
Maddy and John will be happy to greet you.
Ameliasscarf 2 years ago
We will always remember you and your wonderful Music... Rest in Peace, Gentle Man.
voodoohighwayalex 2 years ago
Love you!
ModestMom2009 2 years ago
Rest in Peace!
Jadegoldhawk 2 years ago
What a huge talent and loss. May you rest in peace Kenny. I'm sure the Man Upstairs will be pleased to add another legend to his all star super band!
crooner2007 2 years ago 2
I love Haven't We Met and Why Do Fools Fall in Love:):):)***!!! Kenny Rankin you have such a magical voice,Loamo:):):) "Chin Chin" Chente Anni Salute Ciao:):):)
WithMyLittleSpoon 2 years ago
I always wonder------which is the instrument? Voice or guitar? With Kenny Rankin, the blend IS just instrsumental!
srvinfinity 2 years ago 4
lol me to!
TeseProductions 2 years ago
Love all his songs! I still have all his albums in vinyl,hahaha. Wish he go back and perform again in Manila. Great voice! Great talent, ever!
jeboy88 3 years ago 3
Kenny is a national treasure. I can listen to him all day and night. What a voice...when I think of smooth, I think of Kenny.
bigman9099 3 years ago 3
Saw him last nite (10/24/08) at Tim Mcloons in Asbury Park and he was fabulous, brought me back to his great sounds of the early 70's
mixmastamike71 3 years ago
Effortless. He's a vocal athlete.
motoman32 3 years ago 3
Talent +
pegxxx 3 years ago 3
Amazing.
BIGGEORDIE70 3 years ago 2
Wow...Thanks so much for posting this! This really shows what an awesome talent Kenny Rankin is. In early 1974, I saw him on tv (The Midnight Special); he played Haven't We Met and Why Do Fools Fall in Love. The next day, I sold all my electric guitars, amps, etc. and bought a nylon-string classical guitar and never looked back.
duendeguitar 3 years ago
I guess he's a huge Beatles fan. That makes me like him a lot more. Great talent!
tikmol 3 years ago
Kenny is the model of a real performer who sounds the same whether it's the record or it's live. With just a bare nylon guitar and his cool voice, you've got pure unadulterated entertainment.
namguh 3 years ago 3
Thanks for sharing. what can I say he's awesome!! Amazing talent, truly one of a kind. Love the song too, reminds me of my college days.
migzygab 3 years ago
Thanks for posting. I remember way back when my mother would listen to him almost everyday, and it was hard for me to listen to then, as it is now because it's almost too good, and too emotional. Oh, and I'm a sensitive baby (and a dude).
bluenote71 3 years ago
Always loved Kenny! Thanks for the post!
ggigie 3 years ago
There's no "studio" remixing to make him sound perfect. (As I imagine Janet Jackson uses). The fact that he can stop, stand to make a joke, then resume exactly in tune = AMAZING!
bearguySF 3 years ago
Kenny Rankin....perfect
MrsVil 3 years ago
wow
racann 4 years ago
amazing...
remoman 4 years ago 2
Great singer and great guitar player very impressive.
jobethriver 4 years ago
does anyone have a copy of him playing "coming down"? I saw him sing this song in 1972 as he opened for Steely Dan in St. Louis. he was just awesome
mbrian70956 4 years ago 2
For The Roses is one of the best albums I have ever heard... Sonny, Penn Hills, PA
PENNHILLSPA 4 years ago 2
One of my favorites with a great backup orchestra.
ABOSS302 4 years ago 2
wala kang katulad manny
sibalay 4 years ago 2
I wish I could see the rest of this show- Kenny has the most beautiful voice. What a talent!
JoaniePallatto 4 years ago
hi when i get a chance i will put a few more in and thanks
jazzyfrank 4 years ago
do you have more of this performance. I love the earlier stuff. some one had posted some REALLY early stuff, which was also amazing, but I think this one shows more of his personality and showmanship and his ease in playing, and the way he likes to improv riffs and licks. I'd love to see more
beatnikity 4 years ago 2
Thank you JazzyFrank for posting this clip! I have followed Kenny since 1970. He has so many great songs. One of my favorites is "I Love You." When he performed at Blues Alley in D.C., I wrote Kenny a note prior to the show asking him to play the tune, since I was a newlywed at the time. He didn't play the tune, but everything else he played was excellent. I think I asked him again at the Birchmere in Arlington and he gave me a weird look...oh well, I tried. Enjoyable video!
FigaDealMe22 4 years ago
I wish i could sing like him...
bong40 4 years ago
Oh WOW. I had no idea what Kenny Rankin looked like. What fun.
AnotherGoddess 4 years ago
Haven't we met - fantastic!
deb6sbcglobal 4 years ago
yaaa i really love you're voice...forever....
mopedrozo 4 years ago
Just amazing.... can listen to him forever... :)
K1en 4 years ago
WAYTOGOFRANK!!!!
chistepper 4 years ago