Heather, Raylene, Cookie, Jimmy and John Morris comprised The Rankin Family or as they are known in Cape Breton The Rankins. Heather is the youngest, born in 1967, and John Morris is the senior band member born in 1959. Buddy and Kaye Rankin's family actually consists of twelve children, any one of whom could have been a part of the multi-talented Rankin Family. Their mother, Kaye said they all took a turn at singing or playing a musical instrument. With twelve, musically gifted children, she is not sure if any were born tapping their feet, but one would not be surprised.

The Rankins, as they are fondly called by native Cape Bretoners, lived in Mabou, Cape Breton. They credit their parents for encouraging them to get an education (they all have degrees), work hard and seize opportunities. Their Scottish and Irish roots, can be traced through seven generations in Cape Breton. Singing, dancing and playing instruments came as naturally as walking and talking to the Rankin children.

The musical talents of the band members are as diverse as the range of instruments available at any given time. John Morris started playing the piano when he was eight and the fiddle when he was nine. Although he is usually seen playing these instruments he also plays the electric and acoustic guitar, bass and mandolin. He is also an accomplished composer and songwriter. John Morris' fiddle style was said to have a Mabou Coal Mines' flavor. His death in early 2000 foreshadowed the breakupof the group who now pursue varied interests but many such as Cookie and Jimmy are still pursuing music.

Jimmy is well known as the cornerstone in the Rankins' songwriting file. Jimmy's rural Cape Breton background is reflected in many of his songs such as the Mull River Shuffle, Johnny Tulloch and The Orangedale Whistle. Jimmy chords on the acoustic guitar, and sings lead vocal for many of the Rankins' songs.

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Last update: Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 4:12:53 PM