Celebrating Ernest Ranglin: Help Bring the Ultimate Legacy Box Set to Life
- Karen Williams
- 1 minute ago
- 3 min read
If you love reggae, ska, or the soulful sounds of Jamaican jazz, you owe a lot to Ernest Ranglin—even if you don’t know it yet! Now, fans worldwide have a unique chance to help celebrate this musical pioneer, as a brand new Kickstarter campaign aims to fund the most comprehensive box set ever created in his honor.
At 92 years young, Ernest Ranglin is ready to take a step back from the stage, but not before ensuring his incredible story is preserved for future generations. That’s why he and producer Anthony Mindel have teamed up to create a definitive box set—a loving tribute spanning Ranglin’s entire career.
Here’s what supporters can look forward to:
Five heavyweight vinyl LPs (or four CDs) packed with early ska hits, reggae classics, rare tracks, and legendary collaborations—all newly re-licensed and remastered.
A 60-minute pirate radio mixtape capturing the golden age of Jamaican music.
A 50-page scrapbook filled with rare photos, essays, liner notes, and even some of Ranglin’s own musical scores.
Brand new recordings featuring special guest artists, proving that Ranglin’s creativity is as vibrant as ever.
Ernest Ranglin isn’t just a guitarist—he’s a true architect of Jamaican music. Over an astonishing seven-decade career, he’s worked with everyone from Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff to Toots and the Maytals. He arranged Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop,” the first Jamaican song to conquer the world charts, and played on Marley’s very first hit. Ranglin’s guitar style became the blueprint for ska and reggae, influencing generations of musicians from The Specials and The Clash to No Doubt and Sublime.
His list of honors is long: Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, a spot in the Jamaican Music Hall of Fame, and an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies, just to name a few. Yet, despite his global impact, Ranglin remains one of music’s most underappreciated legends.
Reflecting on this milestone project, Ranglin says:
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and unity with the world. This project means so much to me because it brings together all the chapters of my journey and gives thanks to everyone who helped shape the sound of Jamaica. I hope it inspires the next generation to keep the music alive and progressing.”
“Ernest’s story is the story of Jamaican music itself. This box set isn’t just a tribute—it’s a long-overdue recognition of his genius, generosity, and global influence. We’re inviting fans everywhere to be part of this historic celebration.”
How You Can Help
The Kickstarter campaign is live until June 19, 2025—Ernest’s 93rd birthday! Supporters can choose from a variety of rewards, including digital and physical box sets, exclusive signed memorabilia, limited edition posters, private guitar lessons, and other once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Every pledge not only helps bring this project to life, but also ensures that Ranglin’s legacy is preserved for generations to come.
Let’s come together to honor a true musical pioneer. Visit the Kickstarter page to support the campaign, spread the word, and help keep the roots of ska, reggae, and Jamaican jazz alive for the future.
For information on the Kickstarter, please visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/ranglin/ernest-ranglin-legacy.
For information on Ernest Ranglin, please visit www.ernestranglin.com On social, follow at: https://www.instagram.com/ernestranglin/
Join the celebration—because legends like Ernest Ranglin deserve to be heard, remembered, and cherished forever!