GUITAR maestro and composer Ernie Ranglin is dismissing allegations that he is snubbing an Australian show after being advertised as a main act.

According to musicfeeds.com.au, Ranglin was to appear at the annual Bluesfest festival as part of the Jamaican Legends. Rhythm twins Sly & Robbie and Bitty McLean are also billed for April 2014 event.

Ernie Ranglin

The article claims the organisers confirmed Ranglin’s appearance through an agent with whom they had dealt with previously.

The guitarist, however, responded on Noise11 that he was unaware of the gig.

“My agent had made some bookings and responses for booking(s) in Australia of which I was not aware. I regret the problems associated with that action taken by my agent and apologise to all,” his statement read.

“The Jamaican Music Industry procedure in regards to agents and bookings is for agents to contact the artist with a request for performing on a show.

After the artist looks at the Terms and Conditions presented to him in a written contract, then, the artist will make a decision whether to accept or not to accept the contract… I was not asked to look at a contract,” he added.

Manchester-born Ranglin is the recipient of the Order of Jamaica for his contribution to music. He established his career while working as a session guitarist and music director for various Jamaican record labels including Studio One and Island Records. He is credited to have assisted the birth of ska in the late 1950s.