Remembering Mick Ronson on his birthday
Mick Ronson’s most notable accomplishments are closely tied to his collaboration with David Bowie as the lead guitarist and a key member of the Spiders from Mars, Bowie’s backing band
Remembering Mick Ronson on his birthday
Michael “Mick” Ronson was born on May 26, 1946, in Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. Growing up in a working-class family, Ronson developed a passion for music early on. He began playing the piano at a young age and later took up the guitar, influenced by rock and roll and the burgeoning British rock scene. Ronson’s early career began in the 1960s, playing in local bands such as The Mariners, The Crestas, and The Voice. His big break came when he joined The Rats, a Hull-based band that gained regional fame. In 1970, Ronson moved to London, where he met David Bowie through producer Tony Visconti. This meeting would change the course of his career.
Mick Ronson’s most notable accomplishments are closely tied to his collaboration with David Bowie. He became Bowie’s lead guitarist and a key member of the Spiders from Mars, Bowie’s backing band. Ronson’s guitar work and arrangements were pivotal in the success of albums such as “The Man Who Sold the World” (1970), “Hunky Dory” (1971), and the groundbreaking “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” (1972).
Ronson’s distinctive guitar style, marked by melodic solos and innovative use of effects, played a crucial role in defining Bowie’s sound during this era. He also contributed significantly to the arrangements and production of these albums, earning him recognition as a multi-talented musician.
In addition to his work with Bowie, Ronson had a successful solo career. His debut solo album, “Slaughter on 10th Avenue” (1974), showcased his skills as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter. The album received critical acclaim and included standout tracks like “Only After Dark” and the title track, an instrumental cover of a Richard Rodgers composition.
Ronson also collaborated with various artists throughout his career, including Lou Reed on the iconic album “Transformer” (1972), Bob Dylan on the Rolling Thunder Revue tour, and Ian Hunter of Mott the Hoople, with whom he formed a lasting musical partnership.
In the 1980s and early 1990s, Ronson continued to work as a session musician, producer, and arranger. He collaborated with artists such as John Mellencamp, producing and playing on the hit album “American Fool” (1982), which included the chart-topping single “Jack & Diane.” Despite health challenges, Ronson remained active in the music industry, contributing to Morrissey’s “Your Arsenal” (1992) and working on his final solo album, “Heaven and Hull” (1994).
Mick Ronson’s life was tragically cut short by liver cancer. He passed away on April 29, 1993, in London, England, at the age of 46. His death was a significant loss to the music world, as he was widely respected and admired for his contributions to rock music.
Ronson’s legacy endures through his influential work with David Bowie and his contributions to numerous classic rock albums. He is remembered not only as an exceptional guitarist but also as a gifted arranger and producer whose impact on rock music continues to be felt.
Look back at David Bowie’s synergy with Mick Ronson, performing live “Moonage Daydream” with The Spiders from Mars, Hammersmith Odeon, London 1973
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