Jimmy Rankin
Folk / Americana
ActiveAbout
Jimmy Rankin, born in 1964 in Mabou, Nova Scotia, is an acclaimed Nova Scotian folk-rock singer-songwriter and founding member of the internationally successful group The Rankin Family. Growing up in a musical family of 12 siblings, Jimmy experienced music as a way of life—the family would entertain neighbors every third weekend as part of the local céilidh tradition. As the older siblings went away to college and university, the younger siblings Jimmy, Cookie, and Heather took their places, forming what would become known as The Rankin Family, which achieved international success throughout the 1990s.
In 1990, when Jimmy was 26, he wrote "Fare Thee Well, Love," a ballad that became the title track of the group's second album and a chart-topping, crossover hit that remains a Canadian classic. In 2020, both the song and its writer were honoured by the Canadian Songwriters' Hall of Fame, recognizing the enduring impact of this beloved composition. The Rankin Family's blend of traditional Celtic music with contemporary folk-rock influences helped bring Cape Breton music to a global audience.
After The Rankin Family's initial run, Jimmy embarked on a successful solo career, releasing his debut album "Song Dog" in August 2001. His solo work has been highly successful, with notable hits including "Followed Her Around," "Here in My Heart," and "Cool Car." His overcrowded mantle includes five Juno Awards, seven Canadian Country Music Awards, and an impressive 27 East Coast Music Awards. After living and working in Nashville for seven years, Rankin returned to his home province of Nova Scotia. His 2018 album "Moving East," produced by fellow Nova Scotian musician Joel Plaskett, reflects his deep connection to his Maritime roots.