I'd Give Anything To See You

The song "I'd Give Anything To See You" from Mick Ronson's album Just Like This holds a special place in the artist's legacy, as it was part of a collection of unreleased material recorded in late 1976 but not released until 1999, six years after Ronson's passing. This track, with its emotive guitar work and heartfelt lyrics, was highlighted in the 2017 documentary Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story, showcasing Ronson's ability to blend raw emotion with his signature glam-rock sound. According to the documentary, the song was one of two from the album chosen to represent Ronson's creative peak during a challenging period when RCA, his record label, declined to release the album due to the underwhelming sales of his earlier solo works, Slaughter on 10th Avenue and Play Don't Worry. The release of Just Like This was championed by Ronson's widow, Suzanne Ronson, who ensured the limited edition included a bonus CD with demos and outtakes, giving fans a deeper glimpse into his creative process. A rare demo version of the song, available on platforms like Last.fm, reveals a raw, stripped-down take that underscores Ronson’s skill as a multi-instrumentalist and arranger.

Mick Ronson’s journey into music began in Kingston-upon-Hull, England, where he was born on May 26, 1946. Initially trained as a classical musician with aspirations to become a cellist, Ronson’s path shifted after he discovered the electric guitar, inspired by the twangy sounds of Duane Eddy. In the 1960s, he played with local Hull bands, including The Rats, a garage rock outfit that built a strong regional following. His big break came in 1969 when folksinger and producer Mike Chapman invited him to join his recording band, marking Ronson’s entry into professional session work. This led to his pivotal collaboration with David Bowie, starting with the 1969 album Space Oddity. Ronson’s role as the lead guitarist and arranger for Bowie’s Spiders from Mars band, particularly on albums like Hunky Dory and The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, cemented his reputation as a glam-rock icon. His work with Bowie, including arranging strings for Mott the Hoople’s All the Young Dudes and co-producing Lou Reed’s Transformer, showcased his versatility before he pursued a solo career and later collaborated with artists like Bob Dylan, Ian Hunter, and Morrissey.

While Mick Ronson passed away in 1993, his legacy is preserved through various online platforms. His official website, mickronson.com, offers a comprehensive look at his discography, biography, and tributes. Fans can connect on social media through the official Mick Ronson Facebook page, which shares updates and archival content, and the Mick Ronson Instagram account, featuring photos and fan engagement. On X, the official Mick Ronson account posts about his music and influence. Fan communities thrive on sites like LiveJournal’s Mick Ronson Fans page, where enthusiasts share stories and memorabilia. Additionally, the Mick Ronson Fan Group on Facebook provides a space for Zoo Freaks and other fans to discuss his work, including tracks like "I'd Give Anything To See You," keeping his spirit alive in the digital age.