Jamaican Guitar Legend Ernest Ranglin Sets Kickstarter For Box Set Anthology
Jamaican guitarist Ernest Ranglin, considered the architect of ska, reggae, and Jamaican jazz guitar, has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund an expansive box set anthology celebrating his unparalleled musical legacy.
The 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.
A Farewell in Ernest: The Box Set Project
Ranglin, age 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
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 earned 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.
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.
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and unity with the world,” Ranglin said. “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 will end 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.