Because of You

Released in 1991 by the noted audiophile label Chesky Records, Because Of You is an enduring monument to a multi-faceted American singer whose talent knew no boundaries. Occupying a unique space where folk, rock, pop, country, and jazz elements intermingle, Kenny Rankin (1940-2009) - whose golden voice was once described by jazz saxophonist Stan Getz as "a horn with a heartbeat" - was a genre-blurring singer whose soulful sound defied categorization. Impeccably produced by David Chesky, the beautifully performed Because Of You found Rankin blending self-written numbers ('This Old Man' and 'Erienda') with jazz standards ('Someone To Watch Over Me'), and Brazilian classics ('Berimbau'). The album's pièce de résistance is Rankin's take on Thelonious Monk's iconic bebop ballad 'Round Midnight,' which is performed as a duo with double bassist David Finck. The album is reissued on 180g One Step Pressing Vinyl LP in 2025.