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The Rankins
Raylene, John Morris, Jimmy, Cookie and Heather began touring together professionally in 1989. A year later with the independent release of their second recording “Fare Thee Well Love”, they were signed to Capitol/EMI Music. When the label re-released the album in 1992 it went on to become a platinum seller with the title track finding its way to the Disney Movie “Into the West”.“North Country followed in 1993, another multi platinum success, containing the popular title track in addition to “Borders and Time”. Their music crossed over many musical styles earning them a fast growing following as well as industry accolades that included Juno and east Coast Music Awards.
“Grey Dusk of Eve” and Endless Seasons” were both released in 1995 followed by Heather, Cookie and Raylene’s best selling Christmas album “Do You Hear What I Hear”. 1998 saw the release of their final album together – aptly title “Uprooted”.
A year later, in 1999, the group decided to go their separate ways, each pursuing their own interests and musical projects. In 2000 on an icy winter morning, John Morris died in a single car accident. With the loss of what was arguably the musical heart of the Rankin’s any lingering thoughts of reforming, were also laid to rest. It is no surprise that it took 8 years before a suggestion, put forward to have them reunite on a recording and in concert was met first with caution, and then enthusiasm. Was the magic still there?
After work shopping material in Nashville it was clear they had more than just a few songs - in fact, they had an entire album! The Reunion CD was released in January of 2007 and the family set out on a cross-Canada tour with niece Molly Rankin (the daughter of the late John Morris) completing the lineup.
It was as though no time had passed – the Rankin family played to sold out crowds and were welcomed back with standing ovations and amazing reviews:
“The four siblings possess a gift that should be shared with audiences.”
– Saskatoon Star Phoenix
“The stirring anthem ‘Rise Again’ - with Raylene belting out the lyrics “we rise again in the voices of our song” – may very well be the perfect theme song for a unique family that keeps reinventing itself.”
– Winnipeg Free Press
“A ‘standing O’ at the end of last night’s barn-burning Rankin Family Reunion tour was to be expected. But a standing-hello?”
– Toronto Sun
“Fans whistled and hollered their approval with every new tune, and called out their thanks to band members by name at the end of every solo spot. They sang along on the songs they knew, clapped along on those they’d not heard before. It was a long overdue reunion…
– Toronto Star
Night after night, audiences welcomed the Rankin Family back into the fold. The time that had passed only served to strengthen their foundation, renew their spirit and sweeten their sound.
While still pursuing their own musical and business endeavors the Rankin family will continue to perform select concert dates having proven beyond a doubt, that the magic is indeed, still there.
