The world reverberates with the loss of Mick Ralphs, guitarist for Mott the Hoople and Bad Company, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking rock music and beloved family ties.

At a Glance

• Mick Ralphs, founding member of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died at age 81.
• Ralphs suffered a stroke after his last performance in 2016 and had been bedridden since.
• He is set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Bad Company in November.
• Ralphs’ legacy includes writing “Ready for Love” and co-writing “Feel Like Makin’ Love.”

A Pillar of Rock’s Golden Era

Mick Ralphs, the indomitable force behind the riffs that defined Mott the Hoople and Bad Company, passed away at 81. Born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire in 1944, Ralphs’ journey into music began with the blues guitar during his teenage years. This passion led to the formation of the Doc Thomas Group, which eventually transformed into Mott the Hoople in 1969, riding the wave of rock’s golden era. Ralphs’ tenure with the band reached a pinnacle with their hit “All the Young Dudes,” produced by David Bowie.

Ralphs’ career took a pivotal turn when he left Mott the Hoople in 1973 after their commercial success. He joined forces with Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, and Boz Burrell, to establish Bad Company, a group that became synonymous with the arena rock scene. Ralphs’ genius contributed immensely to this era, with unforgettable tracks like “Can’t Get Enough” and the revamped “Ready for Love” gracing their debut album.

Friend and Innovator

Ralphs’ contributions extended beyond his musical genius. “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground,” expressed Paul Rodgers, Bad Company’s frontman, honoring Ralphs as both friend and songwriting partner. “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.” Ralphs’ legacy was cemented by his pioneering influence on compositions that became anthems for generations.

Simon Kirke, another co-founder of Bad Company, described Ralphs as “a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist.” Their camaraderie and shared vision fueled the band’s success and underscored the enduring impact of Ralphs’ music on other artists and fans alike.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite suffering a debilitating stroke in 2016, Ralphs’ spirit never wavered. He anticipated the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognition of Bad Company, an honor he was slated to share posthumously. “I am elated and think that Bad Company’s induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame is fantastic!” Ralphs had shared, reflecting his enduring passion for the band’s accolades. Loved and remembered, Ralphs is survived by his wife, Susie Chavasse, two children, and three stepchildren. His legacy persists as both a rock pioneer and cherished family icon.

Ralphs leaves us with a catalog of music that captured the essence of an era and the heart of its listeners. The echo of his guitar will indeed resonate through time, far beyond the confines of the concert stage. As Paul Rodgers fittingly said, their laughter isn’t over—it’ll continue in the cherished memories and timeless music Mick Ralphs so masterfully crafted.