Entertainment
Kenny Rankin appearing at The Ridgefield Playhouse
By Ridgefield Playhouse
Jun 30, 2008 - 1:19:35 AM

Kenny Rankin

Kenny Rankin has the ability to transform songs of multiple genres into pop and jazz hits. Best known for his covers of "Peaceful," Blackbird" and "Penny Lane," this easy-listening singer is coming to The Ridgefield Playhouse for Movies and the Performing Arts at 8 p.m. on Friday, August 1.

A world-class singer, Kenny Rankin has established an impressive set of creative credentials as an insightful songwriter, a distinctive guitarist and, above all, the ability to cut straight to a song's emotional heart. His peers recognize this-Peggy Lee did a version of his "In the Name of Love," "Haven't We Met" was cut by a jazz and pop artists including Carmen McRae and Mel Torme.

"My interpretation of the songs is purely emotional," he explains. "We've all experienced disappointment and heartache, and that's what I draw upon. When I sing "A Song for You" and "Where Do You Start?" or "She Was Too Good to Me," I'm really hurting for the people in the song. I never change lyrics, because when I select a song it's usually because of how the lyric impacts me. I've been accused of straying from the melody, but when I sing I'm feeling, not thinking."

For tickets ($35) and further information about The Playhouse, call the box office at 203-438-5795; tickets may also be purchased online at www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Playhouse is located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street.

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