April 29, 1993: Remembering Mick Ronson

Born in Hull, Yorkshire, Ronson’s distinctive guitar work—blending raw energy with melodic precision—shaped albums like The Man Who Sold the World (1970), Hunky Dory (1971), The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (1972), and Aladdin Sane (1973). His riffs and arrangements, such as the soaring solo in “Moonage Daydream,” were pivotal to Bowie’s glam rock sound.

Ronson was also a key member of Bowie’s backing band, The Spiders from Mars, alongside Trevor Bolder and Woody Woodmansey. Beyond Bowie, he collaborated with artists like Lou Reed (co-producing Transformer and playing on “Walk on the Wild Side”), Ian Hunter (Mott the Hoople), and Bob Dylan (during the Rolling Thunder Revue). His solo career included albums like Slaughter on 10th Avenue (1974), showcasing his knack for blending rock, glam, and orchestral elements.

As a producer, Ronson worked with acts like Morrissey and The Payolas, bringing his sharp musical instincts to diverse projects. Known for his humility and versatility, he was a sideman who could steal the spotlight without ego. Ronson died of liver cancer in 1993 at 46, leaving a legacy as one of rock’s most influential guitarists. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a Musical Excellence Award recipient in 2012) cemented his impact.