David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” single was released in Britain 50 years ago today (July 11th) Although he isn’t on the record, guitarist Mick Ronson loved playing it live. In a very strange coincidence, the lead guitarist on David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” was in a band called Rats with future Bowie guitarist Mick Ronson. And he was named Mick (Mick Wayne). Ronson, who joined Bowie about a year after “Space Oddity” was recorded, played it live many times during their four years together. He said in 1990 that it showcased one of Bowie’s greatest strengths as a songwriter.
“Great song. Great song to sing. Great song to play. I always like good melody and David’s music was always real interesting melodies. ‘Cause I was brought up as a classical musician. I remember the first piece of music I ever heard, at about 4 years old, that inspired me to want to even play on any instrument was the theme from ‘Limelight,’ the Charlie Chaplin piece of music. And working with David was really good on that level. Some songs were, like, just beautiful, you know. Nice changes.”
