ernest ranglin: be what you want to be
Francisco Espregueira
At 86, legendary guitarist Ernest Ranglin is a defining artist in the development of Jamaican music. With a career of over 50 years, he needs little introduction, being a key figure in shaping the sounds of ska — influenced by New Orleans jazz and R&B - in his own country. Based in the UK, the label Emotional Rescue is in charge of an invaluable reissue, going back 36 years in time to remind us of this 6-track mini LP.
Be What You Want To Be is the result of Ranglin teaming up with Noel Williams (a.k.a. King Sporty). Mixing Williams’ bass heavy boogie disco with Ranglin’s sublime reggae guitar, this highly sought after record is an historic piece - featuring a who’s who of the Miami scene including Bobby Caldwell, Timmy Thomas and Betty Wright. The 12’’ vinyl edition will fly fast from the shelves. This might be a rare opportunity to have Be What You Want To Be spinning around on warm dancefloors.