Ernest Ranglin says he is not coming to Australia for Bluesfest next year because he didn’t even know about it until he was announced.
Bluesfest have announced the withdrawal of Ranglin from the Jamaican Legends.
In a statement, Bluesfest have said, “In dealing with all the artists from any one country in the world, Jamaica has been one of the more difficult over the years for Bluesfest. Numerous agents claim to represent Jamaican artists and it is difficult to know who is currently representing whom”.
Ranglin was named as one of the Jamaican Legends for Bluesfest 2013, along with Sly & Robbie and Bitty McLean. “Bluesfest contacted the agent who represented Ernest Ranglin the first time we toured him and booked, from him, the Jamaican Legends Tour. We were also approached by another agent in France, also claiming to represent Ernest Ranglin,” he statement explained.
“Ernest Ranglin has now contacted Bluesfest to advise he was never approached to come to Australia and tour with Sly & Robbie and Bitty McLean as The Jamaican Legends.
“He also claims the agency we approached no longer represents him. This agency insists they have numerous emails between themselves and Ernest Ranglin clearly stating his acceptance of the Australian Tour”.
Ranglin performed at Bluesfest in 2005. “Ernest Ranglin has now accepted other shows in Europe from the French agent that conflict with the Bluesfest Tour. Last time we toured Ernest he had a Jamaican agent.
“Sly and Robbie and Bitty Mclean say they still would like to come to Australia and tour so Bluesfest is removing Ernest Ranglin’s name from The Jamaican Legend’s line-up whilst other options are explored”.
Bluesfest suggest something more sinister is afoot with Ranglin. “Read into this what you will !! What we read into it, after having successfully toured Ernest Ranglin on two previous occasions via different representatives, among the many who claim to represent him, is that he took a bigger offer after having previously confirmed ours.
“We are profoundly disappointed and all we can say is: “Watch this space !!””.
The 25th Bluesfest will be held in Byron Bay from April 17-21, 2014.
Artists announced so far include John Mayer, Dr John, Doobie Brothers, Boz Scaggs, Greg Allman, Jimmie Vaughan, Aaron Neville, India.Arie, Suzanne Vega and the Dave Matthews Band.
