Its all so peacefull here. Like to think you are playing guitar and singing with Keith Green and Rich Mullins.......so lovely and full of harmony the very best I know! HalleluYAH.
I was lucky enough to go to about 10 of his performances (1st The Troubadour 1975 in LA, on his 35th birthday). In 1985 in Downtown LA my girlfriend took a couple of photos with me and him. Amazed to see so many fans still around. Huge influence in my music and life. Viva Kenny Rankin! Thank you so much for this video.
Just finished enjoying a Kenny Rankin "concert" here on youtube. What a pleasure!
As a young black teenager growing up in the 70's I have to admit my taste in music didn't include Kenny Rankin. But around 74 or 75 a friend of mine brought Silver Morning and looking at the cover (and yes, PREJUDGING) I thought I wouldn't like the music. Well, needless to say after hearing it I was and still am a fan.And I'm fortunate to have seen him live.
I am re-discovering Kenny's music, thanks to another artist, Vance Gilbert, who named Kenny Rankin as a major influence. I have several of Kenny's albums but am embarrassed to admit that I haven't played them in a long while. Thankfully, great music is timeless and the recordings are still there. One the great things about music...artists who stand on the shoulders of those who came before and acknowledge them.Thank you Vance Gilbert for re-kindling an old musical flame! R.I.P. Kenny.
Every now and then I'll hear a song by Kenny or one he covered. I first saw him on Flip Wilson's show back in the 70's and immediately picked up "Like a Seed". Even though I mainly listened to rock and pop growing up during this time, his voice and music was so beautiful and relaxing. It will comfort me anytime I hear it and will until the day I die. Rest in peace Kenny.
I just found out today that Kenny passed away in 2009. I am so sad. I loved him so much. He was such a big part of my younger years. I would listen to him all the time and i was a teenager and none of my peers knew who he was. I was truly ahead of my time! What a lilting, peaceful voice he had. He will be so missed. Love you Kenny and rest in peace
one of the most heavenly voices & progressive guitarists ever. had the honor of hearing him live twice. what a thrill. may kenny rest in peace. his music will always be remembered, revered and oh so..peacefully..enjoyed
Kenny Rankin was an *amazing* vocalist & an incredibly prolific musician, the likes of whom come around once in a blue moon.
I always thought of him as 'a musician's musician' & it baffled me that he wasn't more famous. Rankin's scats were incomparable, his voice other-worldly and his guitar stylings totally original.
In his final concerts, with a full orchestra behind him, he owned the stage with a new distinguished air that completely suited him & added to his charisma even more.
@DylanGirl1963: While I'm just a fan of KR and didn't know him personally as you claim to, I need to address your comment about the late artist...There have been many great artists throughout history whose gift so profoundly touched people that any personality flaws they may have had were forgiven them. Not every artist is "nice", but the beauty, spirit & talent of certain artist' body of work move us to meet them on a level which simply transcends "niceness" standards. KR was such an artist...
i learned today of the death almost 2 years ago of a man i consider one of the greatest singer/songwriters ever, i'm in the UK and i've loved this guy for almost 30 years, in all that time i have only met one other person who has even heard of Kenny, that person was none other than David (hutch) Soul, we chatted about Kenny being one of the most underated singer/songwriters ever, so sad! i too am a singer songwriter and Kenny's a big inspiration. bless you Kenny!
@frankgod123 i was blessed to see and hear him live 3 times in the last few years before his death-all in Hawaii. i spoke to him after the shows each time and got a photo of myself w him. my cell phone got wet and died with himm. i was so disappointed. i guess we all have to go. i will miss him, but still enjoy his legacy
I saw him in person back in the 80's at the IMAC in Huntington, NY. (Sadly, that place is gone now.) Great concert. Loved it. Been in love with his music since I heard him back in the 70's on college. I Miss him.
See, i'm a young guy, and i seldom find good music given out music industries current state of affairs. However, i'm a firm believer that quality music, old and new, is still out there. This is validation. Thank you Kenny Rankin. God bless.
I get the shivers ... Kenny's a one-of-a-kind artist! That amazing voice and guitar work ... there will be no more of his caliber. Yes, Kenny, you finally got to the oh-so-peaceful place above! R.I.P.
Today I had learned that this great composer and singer had died. I listened to this man so much in the seventies and eighties, and when I decided to see if I could find any of his CD's that is when I learned that he had passed. He was always my tune up for my trip to Big Sur. His passing is as bad as losing one of my family.
WITH A TEAR IN MY EYE AND A HEAVY HEART
Kenny may you rest in peace, and I want you to know that you did bring peace to one person, God rest your soul and thank you..
I understand Kenny rankin died form Helen Reddy giving him a blowjob after extreme Cocaine use.Apparently he came and went at the same time just like Paul Lynde and David Carradine.
Saw him in Georgetown just like what is showing in this video, up front and close in an intimate club. He was so good and such a wonderful way with his voice to sing all the songs I came to enjoy all of my life and knew it was such a sad day to know he left this mortal world in such a young age....the songs he's done will forever show the next generations just how and who he was when he sang them for my generation in the 1970's in that Georgetown club that night.
to soriana9: I have also loved his music for over 30 years, very, very sad when I heard he died. I was able to see him at a small club near where I live in Maine on 2 occasions many years ago. Not surprisingly, his voice was absolutely mesmerizing in person, great guitarist as well. He also had a very outgoing & funny personality. The girl I was with was absolutely knocked out by him, she hadn't heard of him until I brought her.We can live on his albums & see him on youtube.
@althecatify: I just saw your comment. Thank you. I wanted so much to see him live. I had looked at his tour schedule every couple of months since 2005, when I 'rediscovered' his music. I had it on my list on myspace of people I wanted to meet in this life. Unfortunately, he did not come to Memphis, where I live. I decided that I would save up and go see him anywhere I could get to on this side of the country. I kept looking.....then he died. I am so grateful for YOUTUBE.
I also was devastated when I learned this past winter that Kenny Rankin had died June 7, 2009. I had been listening to him since the 1970s and loved his voice and all of his work. I had been searching for several years to see if he would play anywhere near where I lived so that I could see him in person. But I never did. I was looking on the internet last November, again try to go to a concert, and found he had died. His music lives on in our hearts and on YouTube!
Thank you to the friend who shared this one with me - what an incredible performance! I think I've finally found that place of peace...and I'm settling in to stay.
KENNY WAS SO HANDSOME AS A YOUNG MAN AND I TOO FOUND HIM AT LEAST 30 YRS AGO!!! i AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOUND HIM ONCE AGAIN ON YOUTUBE. HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE ON. REST IN PEACE KENNY.
Great performance of a beautiful song. I hear some colors from the guitar that aren't quite as discernable on the studio version. Thank you for sharing.
Reminded on the Grammys tonight that he passed away last year. Saw him perform way back when under the stars in Hawaii. Before another show my girlfriends and I snuck into the concert hall during rehearsals. Good times. Love this song and miss him a lot.
The first time I ever went to Germany on a school trip from Wrexham by bus to Dover, we arrived in Kent and dawn was breaking, this was playing on the radio as we went down to Dover harbour. for the ferry to Oostende. The bus was quiet and this song caught us all waking up from a doze. It was peaceful and it still reminds me of that trip. Amazing how a song can take you back and pin-point you in time. I will always connect this with my first trip to Germany - we had a great time there. I was 16.
My mom used to play Kenny Rankin albums in our house, but I didn't realize that I was influenced by him until my Nana said one of my songs sounds like a Kenny Rankin tune.
Now I'm searching for all of his live performances!
Just found out today that Kenny Rankin has passed. I waited to see him and have had my chance slip away. His music is just absolutely amazing. This is probably my fav by him. I am crushed but thankful his music is still with us.
I watched Kenny perform at the Hollywood Roosevelt. I sat in back for all six shows that weekend and he was great. I mean-great!
So all these cool new introspective singer-songwriters, from Mraz to Mayer, Ben Jelen and Matt White, they all should listen to Kenny Rankin. Nobody sang more beautiful, soulful songs, from standards to classics. I mean I never 'felt' Lyin Eyes til I heard Kenny Rankin's version.
Solo or surrounded by Don Costa's lush strings, Kenny was the best of the best.
I remember way back watching Kenny Rankin on the Tonight Show. He would come on when George Carlin would guest host. I was lucky to catch Kenny Rankin at the Blues Alley in Washington DC back in the early 80's.
I just learned today that Kenny Rankin had died...and I cried all day and am crying now. I have loved his music for 30 years. I so wanted to see him in person. So glad to be able to see him on youtube. Kenny, Your songs live forever in my heart.
@soriana9 OMG I hadn't heard of Kenny Rankin's death. Devasted me. I had several of his albums-my Mom introduced me to him. He was a cross between Singer/Songwriter and New Age, using his voice like an instrument.
I'm crushed. Was wondering why I hadn't seen him on PBS or that he didn't have any more albums. Sadness.
I often recall as teenagers growing up in Washington Heights, NY. Larry would sing his 1920's songs, You and I and Frankie would sing with different Doo Wop groups at the time.
How we loved the music! little did we know at the time that it would be part
of our lives as we dream of it. Larry became Tiny Tim, Frankie became lead singer for the Teenagers, I became the bass for the Chevrons, and you became one of our most gifted and talented singer-song writers of our time!
I could go on and on for hours listening to no one but Kenny Rankin...I had loved him since I first heard him in the 70s...a great, great loss! He's now a prized member of Heaven's "choirs of angels." RIP, Kenny.
Kenny Rankin was virtuoso and he was absolutely brilliant on record and in person. I think sometimes, his voice was so beautiful, he made it look so easy and perhaps people didn't value its beauty. I also think we had John Denver as a huge star and their voice range was similar. But Kenny had a jazzier feel and America is not jazz oriented. But I loved Kenny's voice. God bless him. But of course he was all ready blessed with that incredibly beautiful voice!
Gee.. I also just learned about his death while looking for his songs at youtube; i had the pleasure to see him live on a small bar in california during my business school years there - that was back in 1986, I'm from Argentina and I have all his records, A great and unique singer!
I am so shocked! I was looking for a song to dance to for the son/mother dance and wanted the first love of my life ..Kenny..I didn't know he passed. I am grieving. I saw him twice way back when in Dayton, Ohio...I loved him for ever. I guess that makes me pretty old. i also saw him in Huntington Beach, Ca at the Golden Bear when that used to be there. I am grieved.
I'm here to tell those of you who did not have the privilege and pleasure of knowing Kenny that he was even more talented, warm-hearted, and inspiring than these videos display. His passing is a tremendous loss to those who loved him, whether up close or from afar.
The passion of my life since '73. Got to meet him in 2003 - AMAZING! Watch the Jazz Channel DVD daily and cry with every song. There will never be another. How blessed you were to have been so close.
Any relation to George? Another one of a kind genius. Both gone too soon.
Me too... I just found out about his passing today. Shame on a fan like me. I didn't know! Now I'm back to my obsession listening to all his music. He was an authentic artist. No one sings like him. His music, truly is a "Mind Duster". He sings with so much EffortLESS. He was very charming too!
We grew up with his music during my teens in the 70s. I LOVE YOU KENNY RANKIN, YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS...
I never had the chance to see Kenny Rankin live, but I've enjoyed the purity of his voice and musicality in his recordings. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Kenny, I'll hopefully get to hear you in a live performance once I get across to the Other Side of Life. Happy Trails. You will be missed here.
After seeing kenny numerous times I finally got to meet him a few years ago at a show he did in a small club...just a charming, beautiful guy and I've never seen him do a bad show...I will miss him!
i just learned of kenny yesterday while driving and listening to my car sattelite radio. he sang a song "marie" ive heard before by a female. so nice, i cried a happy cry for 1st time in years. then i got home & checked him out online.
Thank you, Kenny, for being part of the soundtrack of my life. Your voice and songs will live on. My heart is grieving as I just read of your passing.
Thank you Kenny for your music! On a personal note, being a huge Helen Reddy fan, I want to thank you for writing such a beautiful song that Helen had a huge hit with.
I saw him in 2004 and told him the story of that night 22 years earlier. He was gracious and reminded me that he was probably drunk off his ass. We had a great laugh and I once again loved Kenny Rankin as a human being and not just a fan.
When I was in college at Cal State Northridge I got to go to McCabes Guitar Shop and witness my first Kenny Rankin show in 1982. I interviewed him. I was very excited and after the show started the interview. He was extremely terse and it was a very short interview. (continued)
Sad to lose a great performer. RIP. Does someone have Kenny's beautiful song "While My Guitar Gently Weeps". He is superb and it's a song most fitting on the day of his passing.
What an amazing voice. I've been listening to Kenny since the early 1970's and his phrasing, pitch, range and overall artistry has never ceased to amaze me. Thanks for posting.
The first time I heard of this guy, I was 17.... I am now 52. I bought his vinyls... and loved his music. I am so sad to hear of his passing. I haven't heard much of him in this day but I have always loved his music. Kenny Rankin was such a true musician, his passion showed in his music. I am sad to see him leave us. I can't wait to meet him on the other side. He was such a sweetheart.
Kenny passed away today and I am so sad. What a lovely voice he had. And he had a sweet way with words. I miss him already. So sad. Peace to him and his family.
I just read about Kenny's untimely death from lung cancer. His name sounded familiar to me from my earlier years so I knew I've heard his music in the past. So I came here to You Tube were I knew I could find his music. I first listened to "Haven't We Met" and remembered it from maybe 30 years ago? Love the song! Didn't know this wasn't a Helen Reddy original, which has got to be my fav from her. Kenney had such a sweet voice! It's always sad when an era ends. May he rest in peace.
beautiful musician and good man. he was introduced to me by george carlin and had the pleasure of working with him several times. the last time i saw kenny was at george's memorial. rest in that silver morning kenny.
Never knew this guy originated this song until this year. An acoustic fingerstyle guitar player myself, my jaw just about dropped when I heard Kenny's version for the first time. Much better than the over produced and overly-cluttered accompaniment version on the Greatest Hits CD. Less is SO MUCH more. I wish I could get this version on CD somewhere. Amazon has nothing that I could find
Such a beautiful song. Tragic that he's allowed himself to wind up so bitter. He blew us all away from the stage tonight. He moved me to tears! And then when the club was emptying out he displayed a shockingly nasty side that shook up those of us who witnessed it. Chops don't mean a damn when you act like that. He lost some life-long fans tonight who paid good money to see him & made time to show up for him. Totally inexcusable.
Funny, i had the same experience a few years ago, i flew to NYC just to see his performance, i am from Montreal, and when i took a picture of him on stage, he just about had a fit!! I was so embarrased, he started yelling at me, to have more consideration, he went on and on ad nauseum, even my waitress felt bad for me. It was a public scolding that was totally uncalled for. A bad memory unfortunately, i spent a lot of money just to see him. He has a lot of talent, yes, but lacks a lot of class.
I think the lack of class is on your side. It is the poorest of taste and actually dangerous to photograph a performer onstage, especially a single artist in close proximity. It can throw off your concentration and actually blind them to the point that they can't see the edge of the stage. I hope you learned something - but probably not.
In responce to your accusation of my *lack of class*, yes i did learn something about photographing musicians onstage, however, i think he could have definately handled the situation in a less aggresive and hostile manner, he did not have to embarrase and humiliate me. As for my *lack of class*, you, Mr. Traugh, should re-examine your posting, as your last comment not only lacks class, but is ignorant and presumptive.
I've been a Kenny Rankin from the first time I heard Silver Morning on the radio. I was driving to work in my '73 Fiat convertible at 11pm for my graveyard shift. The song blew me away so much I pulled to the side of the street to listen to it. When I got to work I called the radio station to ask the DJ who sang that beautiful song. When I got off of work at 8am I went the the 24 hour record / head shop to buy the album. 31 years later, I still have that album and I listen to it.
oh so peaceful song- so cool.thanks for posting.I was quite young then butlove the song till now. i saw himinaconcert in manila but old already but still great after all these years....
Way to go Schlocku. This exactly what we need to keep this great music alive. This guy still has a ton of talent especially after 42 years of playing. Till the Bitter End.....
So sad to hear that Kenny passed away today, rather suddenly due to an illness. So nice of you to post the announcement last year that he would be playing in New York. I do hope you got to see him. I never had that pleasure but still have his albums. Pax.
What an amazing voice. He sings with a fabulous falsetto - very soft, full tone. Some of these songs by him have a strange, beautiful, time-portal like quality..like reading Ray Bradbury. There's an aura to the music.
I'm not sure Kenny sings in falsetto. He has no register break, so his clear, easy high voice might simply be light head voice -- like John Gary's best. But I absolutely agree about that "strange, beautiful, time-portal like quality" and "an aura to the music." Rankin's work exudes both.
The very first time I heard Rankin, circa 1979, I cried. I still do at least 50 percent of the time when I hear him. I don't know; he simply touches a particular chord in the listener --
That is a great comment - so true - I agree; it comes out through the air like falsetto, but it sounds more like it's coming from a person with a natural speaking voice that is soft and gentle, and when they sing it just comes out like that. It doesn't sound like he's "artificially" modifying an otherwise normal voice with a "manipulated" high, typically soft, round tone or timber; it just sounds like his natural singing voice.
Rankin is a VERY skillful singer. He understands art and technique -- one has to downplay (ideally hide) the latter so the former can emerge. And as you note, that high register does indeed sound like his natural voice. As far as I can tell (I'm a former classical singer with extensive experience), Rankin sings with minimal register shifts. And so much the better; the guy is a fantastic singer and artist --
I think this song may have changed my life, it's beautiful. I hope he doesn't mind me learning to play it, looks like a drop D tuning. Thanks for posting this...
Probably my favorite song is "Silver Morning". Unfortunately not on youtube, I have it on CD. Other great songs are "Make Believe" and "I love you". I saw him at the Bottom Line in Greenwich Village (before it closed) in around 2000 or 2001 and he was amazing...
I love Kenny Rankin and will be posting "Regrets" in the future. Meanwhile I have just posted the Helen Reddy version of Peaceful. Thank you very much for this terrific video!
I still have my Kenny Rankin LP. He is so terrific..wish he hadn't stopped recording! Such a beautiful voice and cool guitar! Thank you Kenny. I play my album all the time!
i like this song one of his early performances
whelunleash 2 months ago
Found Your Peace,dear Kenny.
Its all so peacefull here. Like to think you are playing guitar and singing with Keith Green and Rich Mullins.......so lovely and full of harmony the very best I know! HalleluYAH.
AVIVAH4EVER 2 months ago
Tim buckley
ElectroIsMyReligion 3 months ago
I was lucky enough to go to about 10 of his performances (1st The Troubadour 1975 in LA, on his 35th birthday). In 1985 in Downtown LA my girlfriend took a couple of photos with me and him. Amazed to see so many fans still around. Huge influence in my music and life. Viva Kenny Rankin! Thank you so much for this video.
ezroland 4 months ago
Just finished enjoying a Kenny Rankin "concert" here on youtube. What a pleasure!
As a young black teenager growing up in the 70's I have to admit my taste in music didn't include Kenny Rankin. But around 74 or 75 a friend of mine brought Silver Morning and looking at the cover (and yes, PREJUDGING) I thought I wouldn't like the music. Well, needless to say after hearing it I was and still am a fan.And I'm fortunate to have seen him live.
techreptdh 5 months ago
I am re-discovering Kenny's music, thanks to another artist, Vance Gilbert, who named Kenny Rankin as a major influence. I have several of Kenny's albums but am embarrassed to admit that I haven't played them in a long while. Thankfully, great music is timeless and the recordings are still there. One the great things about music...artists who stand on the shoulders of those who came before and acknowledge them.Thank you Vance Gilbert for re-kindling an old musical flame! R.I.P. Kenny.
miketee44321 7 months ago
A truly unique voice will live on in the music....RIP Kenny
njteech 9 months ago
Every now and then I'll hear a song by Kenny or one he covered. I first saw him on Flip Wilson's show back in the 70's and immediately picked up "Like a Seed". Even though I mainly listened to rock and pop growing up during this time, his voice and music was so beautiful and relaxing. It will comfort me anytime I hear it and will until the day I die. Rest in peace Kenny.
Sultan46 9 months ago
I just found out today that Kenny passed away in 2009. I am so sad. I loved him so much. He was such a big part of my younger years. I would listen to him all the time and i was a teenager and none of my peers knew who he was. I was truly ahead of my time! What a lilting, peaceful voice he had. He will be so missed. Love you Kenny and rest in peace
duffyhenry 10 months ago
one of the most heavenly voices & progressive guitarists ever. had the honor of hearing him live twice. what a thrill. may kenny rest in peace. his music will always be remembered, revered and oh so..peacefully..enjoyed
charrmmee 10 months ago
Kenny Rankin was an *amazing* vocalist & an incredibly prolific musician, the likes of whom come around once in a blue moon.
I always thought of him as 'a musician's musician' & it baffled me that he wasn't more famous. Rankin's scats were incomparable, his voice other-worldly and his guitar stylings totally original.
In his final concerts, with a full orchestra behind him, he owned the stage with a new distinguished air that completely suited him & added to his charisma even more.
R.I.P...
noonav 10 months ago
Comment removed
DylanGirl1963 10 months ago
@DylanGirl1963: While I'm just a fan of KR and didn't know him personally as you claim to, I need to address your comment about the late artist...There have been many great artists throughout history whose gift so profoundly touched people that any personality flaws they may have had were forgiven them. Not every artist is "nice", but the beauty, spirit & talent of certain artist' body of work move us to meet them on a level which simply transcends "niceness" standards. KR was such an artist...
noonav 10 months ago
i learned today of the death almost 2 years ago of a man i consider one of the greatest singer/songwriters ever, i'm in the UK and i've loved this guy for almost 30 years, in all that time i have only met one other person who has even heard of Kenny, that person was none other than David (hutch) Soul, we chatted about Kenny being one of the most underated singer/songwriters ever, so sad! i too am a singer songwriter and Kenny's a big inspiration. bless you Kenny!
frankgod123 11 months ago
@frankgod123 i was blessed to see and hear him live 3 times in the last few years before his death-all in Hawaii. i spoke to him after the shows each time and got a photo of myself w him. my cell phone got wet and died with himm. i was so disappointed. i guess we all have to go. i will miss him, but still enjoy his legacy
lilackine 7 months ago
@lilackine you are so lucky, and NO-ONE can take that experience away from you, it's with you forever just like his music. peace!
frankgod123 7 months ago
can't Stop crying
soosunn 11 months ago
What a hypnotic, dreamy sound. His vocal quality so soft and gentle. His acoustic guitar work fabulous. Music for the soul.
hitomusic 1 year ago
I saw him in person back in the 80's at the IMAC in Huntington, NY. (Sadly, that place is gone now.) Great concert. Loved it. Been in love with his music since I heard him back in the 70's on college. I Miss him.
BeezoHow 1 year ago
RIP Kenny,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
njteech 1 year ago
See, i'm a young guy, and i seldom find good music given out music industries current state of affairs. However, i'm a firm believer that quality music, old and new, is still out there. This is validation. Thank you Kenny Rankin. God bless.
TheEntity91 1 year ago
I get the shivers ... Kenny's a one-of-a-kind artist! That amazing voice and guitar work ... there will be no more of his caliber. Yes, Kenny, you finally got to the oh-so-peaceful place above! R.I.P.
psvsia5555 1 year ago 4
@psvsia5555
nsweisthal 2 weeks ago
Today I had learned that this great composer and singer had died. I listened to this man so much in the seventies and eighties, and when I decided to see if I could find any of his CD's that is when I learned that he had passed. He was always my tune up for my trip to Big Sur. His passing is as bad as losing one of my family.
WITH A TEAR IN MY EYE AND A HEAVY HEART
Kenny may you rest in peace, and I want you to know that you did bring peace to one person, God rest your soul and thank you..
RJW59 1 year ago 3
It's great. How/where did you find this, dude?
peterzang 1 year ago
Thanks for all the beautiful songs, Kenny. The world seems an emptier place. Goodbye.
karmal64 1 year ago
Kenny Rankin..I miss you .
carovision 1 year ago
Un estilo único , el mejor, siempre mi preferido
jjburgoss 1 year ago
A unique style, the best
jjburgoss 1 year ago
Anyone recall his work Coming Down felt it all my life kenny I will meet u there mk
mkrase1 1 year ago
God what a talent. RIP, Kenny, you made people happy.
vliet63 1 year ago
Just found that my father produced some shows in 1968 with him. Amazing to find this in 2010 from Google scanned BillBoard magazines
wiibart 1 year ago
all i can say is SWEET
mkrase1 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I understand Kenny rankin died form Helen Reddy giving him a blowjob after extreme Cocaine use.Apparently he came and went at the same time just like Paul Lynde and David Carradine.
Mydickitches1 1 year ago
Saw him in Georgetown just like what is showing in this video, up front and close in an intimate club. He was so good and such a wonderful way with his voice to sing all the songs I came to enjoy all of my life and knew it was such a sad day to know he left this mortal world in such a young age....the songs he's done will forever show the next generations just how and who he was when he sang them for my generation in the 1970's in that Georgetown club that night.
steelnpearls 1 year ago
to soriana9: I have also loved his music for over 30 years, very, very sad when I heard he died. I was able to see him at a small club near where I live in Maine on 2 occasions many years ago. Not surprisingly, his voice was absolutely mesmerizing in person, great guitarist as well. He also had a very outgoing & funny personality. The girl I was with was absolutely knocked out by him, she hadn't heard of him until I brought her.We can live on his albums & see him on youtube.
althecatify 1 year ago
@althecatify: I just saw your comment. Thank you. I wanted so much to see him live. I had looked at his tour schedule every couple of months since 2005, when I 'rediscovered' his music. I had it on my list on myspace of people I wanted to meet in this life. Unfortunately, he did not come to Memphis, where I live. I decided that I would save up and go see him anywhere I could get to on this side of the country. I kept looking.....then he died. I am so grateful for YOUTUBE.
soriana9 1 year ago
He looks like Ted Hughes here...oh my
sbrownie 1 year ago
The best song he sung. My favorite of all time.
jorniles 1 year ago
I also was devastated when I learned this past winter that Kenny Rankin had died June 7, 2009. I had been listening to him since the 1970s and loved his voice and all of his work. I had been searching for several years to see if he would play anywhere near where I lived so that I could see him in person. But I never did. I was looking on the internet last November, again try to go to a concert, and found he had died. His music lives on in our hearts and on YouTube!
soriana9 1 year ago
He's a human saxophone.
ikom35 1 year ago
@ikom35
sax, flute, clarinet, muted trumpet...he was a full band..lol
sbrownie 1 year ago
this has always been one of my favorites...
Stellasgarden 1 year ago
Man this guy was good!
sbbinahee 1 year ago
Thank you to the friend who shared this one with me - what an incredible performance! I think I've finally found that place of peace...and I'm settling in to stay.
mnnorthcountrygirl1 1 year ago
I fell in love with the Kenny Rankin Album. His voice was a sound like no other.To this day it is something special to me.
loulou2lou 1 year ago
KENNY WAS SO HANDSOME AS A YOUNG MAN AND I TOO FOUND HIM AT LEAST 30 YRS AGO!!! i AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOUND HIM ONCE AGAIN ON YOUTUBE. HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE ON. REST IN PEACE KENNY.
irishsetterarchie 1 year ago
Helen Reddy's version makes me want to barf, compared to this.
alshouse 1 year ago
Great performance of a beautiful song. I hear some colors from the guitar that aren't quite as discernable on the studio version. Thank you for sharing.
tfronauer 1 year ago
This is great - thanks for sharing
retrospecta2010 1 year ago 2
Reminded on the Grammys tonight that he passed away last year. Saw him perform way back when under the stars in Hawaii. Before another show my girlfriends and I snuck into the concert hall during rehearsals. Good times. Love this song and miss him a lot.
candyaunty 2 years ago
The first time I ever went to Germany on a school trip from Wrexham by bus to Dover, we arrived in Kent and dawn was breaking, this was playing on the radio as we went down to Dover harbour. for the ferry to Oostende. The bus was quiet and this song caught us all waking up from a doze. It was peaceful and it still reminds me of that trip. Amazing how a song can take you back and pin-point you in time. I will always connect this with my first trip to Germany - we had a great time there. I was 16.
iantoh53 2 years ago
My mom used to play Kenny Rankin albums in our house, but I didn't realize that I was influenced by him until my Nana said one of my songs sounds like a Kenny Rankin tune.
Now I'm searching for all of his live performances!
cocomaire 2 years ago
Just found out today that Kenny Rankin has passed. I waited to see him and have had my chance slip away. His music is just absolutely amazing. This is probably my fav by him. I am crushed but thankful his music is still with us.
GTownSlim 2 years ago 2
I watched Kenny perform at the Hollywood Roosevelt. I sat in back for all six shows that weekend and he was great. I mean-great!
So all these cool new introspective singer-songwriters, from Mraz to Mayer, Ben Jelen and Matt White, they all should listen to Kenny Rankin. Nobody sang more beautiful, soulful songs, from standards to classics. I mean I never 'felt' Lyin Eyes til I heard Kenny Rankin's version.
Solo or surrounded by Don Costa's lush strings, Kenny was the best of the best.
laswilliam 2 years ago 2
RIP Kenny
fomedomez 2 years ago
Carlin not Carlib
srv451 2 years ago
When I was in College in 1970 Kenny Rankin was the opening act for George Carlib
srv451 2 years ago
I've just realised how amazing this song
is , it's worth waiting 40 years!
jhigh2 2 years ago
anyone know who played electric guitar on in the name of love?
mayfield521 2 years ago
I remember way back watching Kenny Rankin on the Tonight Show. He would come on when George Carlin would guest host. I was lucky to catch Kenny Rankin at the Blues Alley in Washington DC back in the early 80's.
CoachNoVA 2 years ago
I just learned today that Kenny Rankin had died...and I cried all day and am crying now. I have loved his music for 30 years. I so wanted to see him in person. So glad to be able to see him on youtube. Kenny, Your songs live forever in my heart.
soriana9 2 years ago 15
@soriana9 OMG I hadn't heard of Kenny Rankin's death. Devasted me. I had several of his albums-my Mom introduced me to him. He was a cross between Singer/Songwriter and New Age, using his voice like an instrument.
I'm crushed. Was wondering why I hadn't seen him on PBS or that he didn't have any more albums. Sadness.
sweatintotheoldies 1 year ago
@soriana9
44 years
msls24x7 1 year ago
So many of our great artists are passing. We should all be aware. M. Makeba, K. Rankin, Micheal Jackson(!) to name only a FEW. Wow, strange feeling.
hitomusic 2 years ago
I often recall as teenagers growing up in Washington Heights, NY. Larry would sing his 1920's songs, You and I and Frankie would sing with different Doo Wop groups at the time.
How we loved the music! little did we know at the time that it would be part
of our lives as we dream of it. Larry became Tiny Tim, Frankie became lead singer for the Teenagers, I became the bass for the Chevrons, and you became one of our most gifted and talented singer-song writers of our time!
Kenny RIP
Al
chevronsbass 2 years ago
Words cannot express,
djday 2 years ago
dint know he was gone,,,saw im in Manila,,,in the
spliff410 2 years ago
I could go on and on for hours listening to no one but Kenny Rankin...I had loved him since I first heard him in the 70s...a great, great loss! He's now a prized member of Heaven's "choirs of angels." RIP, Kenny.
psvsia5555 2 years ago
I had the pleasure of seeing Kenny in concert in 2008 and he sounded even better then he does here, believe it or not. RIP Kenny.
alshouse 2 years ago
Kenny Rankin was virtuoso and he was absolutely brilliant on record and in person. I think sometimes, his voice was so beautiful, he made it look so easy and perhaps people didn't value its beauty. I also think we had John Denver as a huge star and their voice range was similar. But Kenny had a jazzier feel and America is not jazz oriented. But I loved Kenny's voice. God bless him. But of course he was all ready blessed with that incredibly beautiful voice!
anghiariIT 2 years ago
Gee.. I also just learned about his death while looking for his songs at youtube; i had the pleasure to see him live on a small bar in california during my business school years there - that was back in 1986, I'm from Argentina and I have all his records, A great and unique singer!
AleMadison 2 years ago
I am so shocked! I was looking for a song to dance to for the son/mother dance and wanted the first love of my life ..Kenny..I didn't know he passed. I am grieving. I saw him twice way back when in Dayton, Ohio...I loved him for ever. I guess that makes me pretty old. i also saw him in Huntington Beach, Ca at the Golden Bear when that used to be there. I am grieved.
311marcia 2 years ago
I'm here to tell those of you who did not have the privilege and pleasure of knowing Kenny that he was even more talented, warm-hearted, and inspiring than these videos display. His passing is a tremendous loss to those who loved him, whether up close or from afar.
dancarlin4 2 years ago 2
The passion of my life since '73. Got to meet him in 2003 - AMAZING! Watch the Jazz Channel DVD daily and cry with every song. There will never be another. How blessed you were to have been so close.
Any relation to George? Another one of a kind genius. Both gone too soon.
TheJudyChop 2 years ago
I just learned of his passing here. What a loss
harveynagelberg 2 years ago
I just found out today that Kenny Rankin passed away:-( His music was a huge part of me; I will never forget him. RIP, Kenny Rankin...
lazydaisydays 2 years ago
Me too... I just found out about his passing today. Shame on a fan like me. I didn't know! Now I'm back to my obsession listening to all his music. He was an authentic artist. No one sings like him. His music, truly is a "Mind Duster". He sings with so much EffortLESS. He was very charming too!
We grew up with his music during my teens in the 70s. I LOVE YOU KENNY RANKIN, YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS...
atesal 2 years ago
I never had the chance to see Kenny Rankin live, but I've enjoyed the purity of his voice and musicality in his recordings. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Kenny, I'll hopefully get to hear you in a live performance once I get across to the Other Side of Life. Happy Trails. You will be missed here.
mesmerizingsunset 2 years ago
After seeing kenny numerous times I finally got to meet him a few years ago at a show he did in a small club...just a charming, beautiful guy and I've never seen him do a bad show...I will miss him!
larosity 2 years ago
Kenny was one of my musical heroes. Tried to see him often. When he was in the zone he reached deep in the soul. God Bless him...
ztrekk 2 years ago
I have seen that video, but you know what, I could watch that video over and over again!
dslyoungNHI 2 years ago
I feel fortunate that I was able to "hear" and love Kenny Rankin's music years ago. Thank you God for allowing this voice to bless us.
ectorlove 2 years ago
i just learned of kenny yesterday while driving and listening to my car sattelite radio. he sang a song "marie" ive heard before by a female. so nice, i cried a happy cry for 1st time in years. then i got home & checked him out online.
wwonka52 2 years ago
Kenny Rankin was the music of my youth ... he will be sorely missed, but his music will live on .....
Aloha from Hawaii Kenny !
lfabro13 2 years ago
R.I.P., Kenny.
soundslikefrank 2 years ago
thank you kenny for your voice
constantine62 2 years ago
Wonderful to experience -- thank you. Bless you Kenny, Heaven has opened its gates & will enjoy your performances.
jazzamoureux 2 years ago
RIP Kenny.
CindyPDX 2 years ago
Your music changed my life forever. God Bless You and RIP Kenny.
RF73 2 years ago
He positioned his guitar much differently in his younger days it seems. May he rest in peace.
ilbcolts 2 years ago
A gorgeous voice of rare sweetness and agility, good night song man...so sad, he will be missed....
practicalmagicke 2 years ago
Now this was some sad news - sweet voice, splendid musician, good writer.
cmhmuscle 2 years ago
Thank you, Kenny, for being part of the soundtrack of my life. Your voice and songs will live on. My heart is grieving as I just read of your passing.
BrinaSeattle 2 years ago 2
Thank you Kenny for your music! On a personal note, being a huge Helen Reddy fan, I want to thank you for writing such a beautiful song that Helen had a huge hit with.
philip0460 2 years ago
Saw him several times in the 70's He and Dan Folgerberg Both Great!
bradcdm 2 years ago
Two huge losses within the past year.
slovermadly 2 years ago
Thank you Kenny for the wonderful music and the great voice. A true musician with heart. Love from Austin. Travieso
Travieso78702 2 years ago
RIP Kenny...you were the best...liquid velvet voice, beautiful compositions, great performer. Thank you for a short life time of joy.
Mimi
Mimimph 2 years ago
Saw him in Dallas,,,unforgettable!!!! Became a fan instantly,,,most unique sound
asheymwyatt 2 years ago
(continuation)
I saw him in 2004 and told him the story of that night 22 years earlier. He was gracious and reminded me that he was probably drunk off his ass. We had a great laugh and I once again loved Kenny Rankin as a human being and not just a fan.
rotn60 2 years ago
When I was in college at Cal State Northridge I got to go to McCabes Guitar Shop and witness my first Kenny Rankin show in 1982. I interviewed him. I was very excited and after the show started the interview. He was extremely terse and it was a very short interview. (continued)
rotn60 2 years ago
Thank you for the music...rest in peace.
benmart5 2 years ago 2
Sad to lose a great performer. RIP. Does someone have Kenny's beautiful song "While My Guitar Gently Weeps". He is superb and it's a song most fitting on the day of his passing.
asheymwyatt 2 years ago
What an amazing voice. I've been listening to Kenny since the early 1970's and his phrasing, pitch, range and overall artistry has never ceased to amaze me. Thanks for posting.
andyderrow 2 years ago 2
rest in peace Kenny Rankin..
now you are in peace..
thanksfor the great music!
ferdzrines954 2 years ago
The first time I heard of this guy, I was 17.... I am now 52. I bought his vinyls... and loved his music. I am so sad to hear of his passing. I haven't heard much of him in this day but I have always loved his music. Kenny Rankin was such a true musician, his passion showed in his music. I am sad to see him leave us. I can't wait to meet him on the other side. He was such a sweetheart.
Robyn1757 2 years ago 2
what a big loss...
my thoughts and prayer go out to his daughter..
audiomaxltd 2 years ago
So sad. This song is so appropriate. I hope he is at peace 'there' and enjoying his eternal 'Silver Mornings'
trwx 2 years ago
RIP...an angels voice....
ptownmotowndj 2 years ago
What a loss...everyone should know his music...RIP, Kenny, and thank you... :(
recordman64 2 years ago
RIP
Thanks for the memories
jwmellott 2 years ago
I also liked the 70's version that I believe was sung by Helen Reddy. It was a very nice song then and now.
jeangary 2 years ago
Kenny passed away today and I am so sad. What a lovely voice he had. And he had a sweet way with words. I miss him already. So sad. Peace to him and his family.
Tones4me1 2 years ago
You're so peaceful now. rest in peace Mr. Rankin.
kiboyten 2 years ago
Beautiful xx
msstevie1951 2 years ago
This IS my favorite of his. Happy trails to him...
spapa58 2 years ago
I just read about Kenny's untimely death from lung cancer. His name sounded familiar to me from my earlier years so I knew I've heard his music in the past. So I came here to You Tube were I knew I could find his music. I first listened to "Haven't We Met" and remembered it from maybe 30 years ago? Love the song! Didn't know this wasn't a Helen Reddy original, which has got to be my fav from her. Kenney had such a sweet voice! It's always sad when an era ends. May he rest in peace.
ilovegoodsax 2 years ago
you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace !
flowerpower 2 years ago
That is a beautiful song. Thanks for the lasting gifts, Kenny. You'll live on through the music.
Cielodrive 2 years ago
RIP Kenny. Luv, A big fan for 3 decades.
agranoffed 2 years ago 2
A kind talented man and friend....he will be missed by many of us here in Studio City and Encino.....
carlamcgov 2 years ago 2
He will be missed. Rest in Peace dear Kenny.
Bibbitzmom 2 years ago 2
beautiful musician and good man. he was introduced to me by george carlin and had the pleasure of working with him several times. the last time i saw kenny was at george's memorial. rest in that silver morning kenny.
malibuurbisci 2 years ago
am devastated to know Kenny passed away last June 7, 2009. I am terribly sad... he was a major soundtrack of my life.
thecompanyph 2 years ago 3
Comment removed
hitomusic 2 years ago
I love this...never knew it wasn't Helen Reddy originally (sorry... I heard Helen's version as a 4 year-old)....he reminds me a bit of Tim Buckley.
geoffsnuts 2 years ago
Never knew this guy originated this song until this year. An acoustic fingerstyle guitar player myself, my jaw just about dropped when I heard Kenny's version for the first time. Much better than the over produced and overly-cluttered accompaniment version on the Greatest Hits CD. Less is SO MUCH more. I wish I could get this version on CD somewhere. Amazon has nothing that I could find
karmal64 2 years ago
a legend!!!! thnx for the post.....
bobitsuki 2 years ago
Ah hahahahahah homedweller696969 that is hysterical!!!!
mraldcity905 2 years ago
1972
rotn60 2 years ago
Thank god for you-tube-probably haven't heard KR in thirty years-can't remember an album I got laid more to than From thr Inside-thanks Kenny
homedweller696969 3 years ago
Kenny is a great artist, and God bless him --
stevevandien 3 years ago
Kenny's voice is almost gotic, fantastic also listen to groovin.
savariaxa 3 years ago
What a treasure!
hoovrbrt 3 years ago
incredible,thanks for sharing
theothor 3 years ago
Such a beautiful song. Tragic that he's allowed himself to wind up so bitter. He blew us all away from the stage tonight. He moved me to tears! And then when the club was emptying out he displayed a shockingly nasty side that shook up those of us who witnessed it. Chops don't mean a damn when you act like that. He lost some life-long fans tonight who paid good money to see him & made time to show up for him. Totally inexcusable.
lizzabbott 3 years ago
Funny, i had the same experience a few years ago, i flew to NYC just to see his performance, i am from Montreal, and when i took a picture of him on stage, he just about had a fit!! I was so embarrased, he started yelling at me, to have more consideration, he went on and on ad nauseum, even my waitress felt bad for me. It was a public scolding that was totally uncalled for. A bad memory unfortunately, i spent a lot of money just to see him. He has a lot of talent, yes, but lacks a lot of class.
eediebeedie 2 years ago
I think the lack of class is on your side. It is the poorest of taste and actually dangerous to photograph a performer onstage, especially a single artist in close proximity. It can throw off your concentration and actually blind them to the point that they can't see the edge of the stage. I hope you learned something - but probably not.
traugh 2 years ago
In responce to your accusation of my *lack of class*, yes i did learn something about photographing musicians onstage, however, i think he could have definately handled the situation in a less aggresive and hostile manner, he did not have to embarrase and humiliate me. As for my *lack of class*, you, Mr. Traugh, should re-examine your posting, as your last comment not only lacks class, but is ignorant and presumptive.
eediebeedie 2 years ago
I've been a Kenny Rankin from the first time I heard Silver Morning on the radio. I was driving to work in my '73 Fiat convertible at 11pm for my graveyard shift. The song blew me away so much I pulled to the side of the street to listen to it. When I got to work I called the radio station to ask the DJ who sang that beautiful song. When I got off of work at 8am I went the the 24 hour record / head shop to buy the album. 31 years later, I still have that album and I listen to it.
MrsVil 3 years ago 3
WHAT A GREAT SONG!!! FANTASTIC PERFORMANCE , I LOVE IT. Thanks for sharing.
jerstrada 3 years ago
I have not heard Kenny for almost 30 years, it is so nice to hear his voice again.
flyercrazy 3 years ago
YEAH! Great song!
nickybadboy50 3 years ago
This is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard.
iguitar344 3 years ago 3
I heard this song a thousand times in the elevator and love it so much...I always thought it's cat Stevens...thanks for posting...
chrisbell1979 3 years ago
I've seen Kenny more times than I can count... He's an amazing talent.. I'm kind of glad he never got HUGE... his concerts are small and intimate...
BTW.. the name of the song is PEACEFUL
mermandrea 3 years ago
oh so peaceful song- so cool.thanks for posting.I was quite young then butlove the song till now. i saw himinaconcert in manila but old already but still great after all these years....
mslanggam 3 years ago
I wish I could find his After The Roses on You Tube. One of my favorite albums.
ABOSS302 3 years ago 2
SO peaceful kenny rankin still sounds great 42 years later!
yomamadontdanz 3 years ago 3
Great talent. Saw him once in '91. Just him and his guitar. Great show!
tikmol 3 years ago 2
Wow - he's cute! I like Helen Reddy's version too. Such a great song.
tubetrekker30 3 years ago 2
oh so peaceful.....
jjonah10 3 years ago 3
hi ih ih hi hi
alrankin1975 3 years ago
If anybody is in the New York City area on May 20, come see Kenny perform back at the Bitter End for the first time since this video 42 years ago!
Schlockumentaries 3 years ago 2
Way to go Schlocku. This exactly what we need to keep this great music alive. This guy still has a ton of talent especially after 42 years of playing. Till the Bitter End.....
Editjeff 3 years ago
So sad to hear that Kenny passed away today, rather suddenly due to an illness. So nice of you to post the announcement last year that he would be playing in New York. I do hope you got to see him. I never had that pleasure but still have his albums. Pax.
Tones4me1 2 years ago 2
I'm thrilled to have found this. I have'nt heard this song since 1968. Really takes me back and gives me great peace. Thanks!
karon121950 3 years ago 3
Discovery! Rankin also covered "Blackbird"--his voice ushers in April's spring...See him in: THE FACE OF SUCCESS - LA CARA DEL ÉXITO
atyg1967 3 years ago
great - i also love the version of georgie fame
foellmi 3 years ago
Beautiful!
nightjasmine25 3 years ago 4
Kenny Rankin is a great talent. Oh, so Peaceful & Beautiful. Thank You - Smile67!
pennymusicMAma 3 years ago 2
Someone once compared his voice to a clarinet - meant as a compliment. I agree, except his instrument is his own voice!
bearguySF 3 years ago 2
Fantastic artist, handsome as hell. I like when he does "Brazilian" type songs.
bearguySF 3 years ago
What an amazing voice. He sings with a fabulous falsetto - very soft, full tone. Some of these songs by him have a strange, beautiful, time-portal like quality..like reading Ray Bradbury. There's an aura to the music.
hitomusic 3 years ago 2
I'm not sure Kenny sings in falsetto. He has no register break, so his clear, easy high voice might simply be light head voice -- like John Gary's best. But I absolutely agree about that "strange, beautiful, time-portal like quality" and "an aura to the music." Rankin's work exudes both.
The very first time I heard Rankin, circa 1979, I cried. I still do at least 50 percent of the time when I hear him. I don't know; he simply touches a particular chord in the listener --
stevevandien 2 years ago 4
That is a great comment - so true - I agree; it comes out through the air like falsetto, but it sounds more like it's coming from a person with a natural speaking voice that is soft and gentle, and when they sing it just comes out like that. It doesn't sound like he's "artificially" modifying an otherwise normal voice with a "manipulated" high, typically soft, round tone or timber; it just sounds like his natural singing voice.
hitomusic 2 years ago
Rankin is a VERY skillful singer. He understands art and technique -- one has to downplay (ideally hide) the latter so the former can emerge. And as you note, that high register does indeed sound like his natural voice. As far as I can tell (I'm a former classical singer with extensive experience), Rankin sings with minimal register shifts. And so much the better; the guy is a fantastic singer and artist --
stevevandien 2 years ago 2
I think this song may have changed my life, it's beautiful. I hope he doesn't mind me learning to play it, looks like a drop D tuning. Thanks for posting this...
dacookson 3 years ago 3
GREAT SONG, I Love Kenny Rankin.... i love his songs.
mfjzcdo 4 years ago
Probably my favorite song is "Silver Morning". Unfortunately not on youtube, I have it on CD. Other great songs are "Make Believe" and "I love you". I saw him at the Bottom Line in Greenwich Village (before it closed) in around 2000 or 2001 and he was amazing...
mlb14625 4 years ago
Kenny's voice is so soothing. I saw him when he opened for George Carlin in 1972 in Detroit. What a breath of fresh air!
COLORADOMARY 4 years ago 2
So peaceful, Its what the world needs now...
youjennytube 4 years ago 2
I love Kenny Rankin and will be posting "Regrets" in the future. Meanwhile I have just posted the Helen Reddy version of Peaceful. Thank you very much for this terrific video!
mrtrashcan 4 years ago
I still have my Kenny Rankin LP. He is so terrific..wish he hadn't stopped recording! Such a beautiful voice and cool guitar! Thank you Kenny. I play my album all the time!
224clb22 4 years ago 3
this will get a million views just from me.
thank you very very much smile67.
betong1 4 years ago 3
He sings like an angel. Best male jazz vocalist ever. Thanks for posting.
capcuervo 4 years ago 2