Mick Ralphs, Founding Guitarist of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, Dies at 81

Mick Ralphs, the legendary British guitarist and songwriter who co-founded two of rock music’s most iconic bands—Bad Company and Mott the Hoople—has died at the age of 81. The announcement of his passing came on Monday, June 23, marking the end of a remarkable era for classic rock. Although no cause of death was revealed, Ralphs had been bedridden since suffering a debilitating stroke in 2016.

Ralphs leaves behind a legacy of timeless music, groundbreaking collaborations, and a sound that helped define 1970s rock. His former Bad Company bandmates, Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, paid heartfelt tributes, remembering him as a close friend and musical visionary.

“Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground,” said Rodgers, 75, in a statement. “He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humour.”

Rodgers also shared that their last conversation, just days before Ralphs’ death, was filled with laughter. “It won’t be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter,” he added. “Condolences to everyone who loved him, especially his one true love, Susie. I will see you in heaven.”

Simon Kirke, also 75, echoed those sentiments, saying, “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”

Born in 1944 in Herefordshire, England, Ralphs picked up the guitar in his teens and quickly immersed himself in the vibrant music scene of the 1960s. He got his start in a band called Doc Thomas Group, which eventually evolved into the influential glam rock outfit Mott the Hoople. Ralphs played on six of the band’s albums, including the critically acclaimed All the Young Dudes, which was famously produced by David Bowie.

It was in 1971 that Ralphs’ path crossed with Paul Rodgers, then the vocalist of Free. The two musicians clicked instantly during a jam session, and Ralphs soon made the pivotal decision to leave Mott the Hoople. Alongside Rodgers, Simon Kirke, and King Crimson’s Boz Burrell, Ralphs formed Bad Company—a group that would go on to dominate rock radio in the 1970s.

Backed by Led Zeppelin’s powerful management and signed to their record label Swan Song, Bad Company hit the ground running. Their self-titled debut album in 1974 shot straight to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and spawned enduring rock hits like “Can’t Get Enough,” “Movin’ On,” “Ready for Love,” and “Rock Steady.” Ralphs’ bluesy, hard-hitting guitar work became a cornerstone of the band’s distinctive sound.

Throughout his career with Bad Company, Ralphs was instrumental in crafting a catalog that resonated deeply with fans. Songs like “Shooting Star” and “Silver, Blue and Gold” showcased his melodic instincts and songwriting depth. Even after the band’s final studio album was released in 1995, Bad Company remained a live staple, frequently reuniting for sold-out tours and nostalgic performances.

One of Ralphs’ last major performances took place in 2016 at London’s O2 Arena, a triumphant return to the stage that unfortunately became his final bow. Just days after the show, he suffered a serious stroke that left him incapacitated for the remainder of his life. Despite his long absence from public life, his impact never faded.

In a bittersweet twist of timing, Bad Company is set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this coming November. Ralphs, who had spoken of the honor before his passing, expressed great joy about the recognition. “I am elated, it feels great… fabulous to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,” he said in a recent Instagram post.

Mick Ralphs is survived by his long-time partner, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children, and the bandmates who stood by him through decades of musical triumphs and personal challenges.

With his passing, the world has lost a monumental figure in rock history, but his riffs, his spirit, and his songs live on. From the anthemic hooks of Bad Company to the glam rock flair of Mott the Hoople, Mick Ralphs’ guitar continues to echo through generations of fans.