Jimmy Rankin was the principal songwriter as well as a lead vocalist and guitarist for The Rankins. In 2001, a year after his brother and band-mate, John Morris died in an automobile accident, Jimmy released his first solo record, Song Dog. Song Dog is a remarkably upbeat blend of folk-rock and pop reminiscent of the Jayhawks and fellow Canadians, Blue Rodeo. Rankin won numerous accolades and nominations including a Canadian Radio Music Award for Best New Solo Artist - Adult Contemporary, numerous ECMAs and two Juno nominations.