Mick Ronson: Play Don’t Worry

WHEN DAVID BOWIE and the Spiders from Mars barnstormed America almost two years ago they managed to astound anyone who saw them perform. The Spiders maintained a phenomenal energy level throughout their performance; they were simply the most exciting rock act to tour the States in eons. Almost all the band’s material was written by Bowie, and he was responsible for the staging as well as providing the focal point for the futuristic show. But his focus was challenged by Mick Ronson, a guitarist transcending the role of accompanist. Bowie may have been the intended star of the show, but much of the productions dynamism and outrageousness originated from Ronson.