Mick Ralphs, the founding guitarist and key songwriter for iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81.
Mick Ralphs: A Rock Legend Remembered
Mick Ralphs, the founding guitarist and key songwriter for iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81. He was known for his contributions to classic hits such as “All the Young Dudes,” “All the Way From Memphis,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.”
Legacy and Career
His family confirmed the news but did not disclose the cause, date, or location of his death. Ralphs had suffered a stroke in 2016 and had been residing in a nursing home for several years. Notably, Bad Company was recently voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is set to be inducted in November, marking their first nomination despite being eligible for over 25 years.
In 1973, Ralphs co-founded Bad Company alongside former Free vocalist Paul Rodgers, bassist Boz Burrell, and drummer Simon Kirke. The band quickly rose to fame, becoming the first act signed to Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song Records, and achieved a No. 1 LP in the U.S. with their self-titled album in 1974. The album also reached No. 3 in the UK and featured hit singles like the Ralphs-penned “Can’t Get Enough” and “Movin’ On.”
Over the years, Bad Company released five consecutive Top 15 albums, four of which went platinum. Their music continues to resonate on classic rock radio, featuring timeless tracks such as “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad,” “Bad Company,” “Burnin’ Sky,” “Ready for Love,” and the legendary “Shooting Star.” Ralphs contributed to a total of twelve studio albums with the band from 1974 to 1996.
Tributes and Remembrance
Following his passing, Paul Rodgers expressed his sorrow, stating, “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, and an amazing guitarist.” Simon Kirke also shared his condolences, calling Ralphs a dear friend and exceptional musician.
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Before his success with Bad Company, Ralphs co-founded Mott the Hoople, originally known as The Doc Thomas Group, which gained critical acclaim but struggled commercially until David Bowie wrote “All the Young Dudes” for them. The song became a Top 5 hit in the UK and helped the band gain recognition.
The All the Young Dudes album was followed by Mott in 1973, which featured the hit “All the Way from Memphis.” Both albums were recognized by Rolling Stone as among the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Ralphs eventually left Mott to form Bad Company.
In addition to his work with these bands, Ralphs released three solo albums and collaborated with David Gilmour of Pink Floyd in 1984. He is survived by his wife, Susie Chavasse, two children, and three stepchildren.
