Grandfather of Reggae Ernest Ranglin Kickstarter Launches Today to Raise Funds for the Definitive Legacy Box Set of this Underappreciated Legend
Legendary Jamaican guitarist Ernest Ranglin, the architect of ska, reggae, and Jamaican jazz guitar, is set to launch a historic Kickstarter campaign on May 19, 2025, to fund an expansive box set anthology celebrating his unparalleled musical legacy. This crowdfunded project invites fans and music lovers worldwide to help preserve the story of one of the most influential yet under-recognized figures in world music history.
After over seven decades of shaping Jamaican music’s sound, Ranglin, now 92, is embarking on his final chapter – dialing down his live performances and ensuring his contributions are correctly documented and celebrated. The box set, meticulously curated by Ranglin and producer Anthony Mindel, will feature:
- Five 180g vinyl LPs spanning early ska hits, reggae classics, collaborations, and rare vault tracks, or four CDs including newly re-licensed and remastered versions of his earliest albums
- A 60-minute pirate radio mixtape recreating the golden era of Jamaican music
- A 50-page musical scrapbook with archival photos, essays, liner notes, and scores
- New recordings with special guests, showcasing Ranglin’s ongoing creativity
Ernest Ranglin is a globally celebrated guitarist, arranger, and composer whose innovative style shaped the evolution of ska, reggae, and Jamaican jazz. Over his seven-decade career, he has worked with icons across genres, earning accolades including Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, induction into the Jamaican Music Hall of Fame, and an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies.
Ernest Ranglin’s influence reverberates through the music of Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Toots and the Maytals, and countless others. He was the arranger behind the first global Jamaican hit, Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop,” played on Marley’s first hit, “It Hurts to Be Alone,” and invented the guitar style that defined ska and reggae. His pioneering work inspired generations of artists worldwide, from The Specials and The Clash to No Doubt and Sublime. Ranglin continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide with his artistry and vision.
Reflecting on this milestone, Ernest Ranglin shares: “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.”
Anthony Mindel, producer of the box set, adds: “Ernest’s story is the story of origins and development of Jamaican music from the 50s to the present, that has influenced countless ska, reggae, and jazz artists worldwide. This box set is not just a tribute, it’s a long-overdue recognition of his genius, his generosity, and his global impact. We’re thrilled to invite fans everywhere to be part of this historic celebration.”
The Kickstarter campaign launches May 19, at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ranglin/ernest-ranglin-legacy, and will run through June 19, Ranglin’s 93rd birthday, ending on July 19, 2025. Supporters can pledge for digital and physical editions of the box set, exclusive signed memorabilia, limited edition posters, private guitar lessons, other once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and more. Every pledge helps secure Ranglin’s rightful place in music history and ensures his story is told for generations to come.
Join us in honoring the legacy of a true musical pioneer. Visit the Kickstarter page on May 19 to support the campaign, share the news, and help preserve the roots of ska, reggae, and Jamaican jazz for future generations.
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- I'm Al Mega the CEO of Comic Crusaders, CEO of the Undercover Capes Podcast Network, CEO of Geekery Magazine & Owner of Splintered Press (coming soon). I'm a fan of comics, cartoons and old school video games. Make sure to check out our podcasts/vidcasts and more!
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