Ian Hunter - You're Never Alone with a Schizophrenic
On this episode, we discuss Ian Hunter and his 1979 LP You're Never Alone with a Schizophrenic. Hunter worked a long time to find success. His band Mott the Hoople were instrumental in advancing glam rock by giving it a rougher edge. David Bowie was such a fan of the band that he even gave them the song "All the Young Dudes" which became the title track for their most popular album, which he also produced. Hunter eventually left Mott the Hoople to concentrate on a solo career and made several albums with Bowie collaborator, and guitarist extraordinaire, Mick Ronson. The results were a series of fine albums, featuring Hunter's (admittedly limited, but expressive voice) against Ronson's classic Marshall stack sound.
You're Never Alone with a Schizophrenic not only features Ronson, but several members of Bruce Springsteen's E Street band, grounding the album with a solid foundtion. The song "Cleveland Rocks" became an anthem for the birthplace of Rock-n-Roll and "Ships" was even covered by Barry Manilow, becoming one of his biggest hits. But don't let the Manilow cover fool you, You're Never Alone with a Schizophrenic is chock full of rock and roll energy and is considered by many as Hunter's crowning achievement.
THINGS WE DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE
Ian Hunter had a long term, collaborative relationship with former David Bowie guitarist Mick Ronson.
Ian Hunter sans his glasses
Here’s the promotional video for the David Bowie penned “All the Young Dudes.”
Ian Hunter performing the song “Bastard” on the German television show Rockplast.
Ian Hunter performing “Cleveland Rocks” at the Angora Ballroom in Cleveland - 1979.
