Mick Ralphs, the renowned British guitarist and founding member of two iconic rock bands—Bad Company and Mott the Hoople—has passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed through an official statement released by Bad Company on their website.

Ralphs had largely stepped away from the public eye following a stroke in 2016, which occurred shortly after his final performance with Bad Company at London’s O2 Arena. While specific details about his passing have not been publicly disclosed, his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the global music community.

Remembering a Rock Music Pioneer
Paul Rodgers, lead vocalist of Bad Company and Ralphs’ longtime friend and bandmate, shared a moving tribute:

“Our Mick has passed—my heart just hit the ground. He’s left us with unforgettable songs and memories. More than a bandmate, he was a dear friend, a brilliant guitarist, and someone whose humor could light up any room.”

Ralphs was scheduled to be honored later this year with an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of Bad Company—a recognition fans and peers alike believed was long overdue.

From Mott the Hoople to Bad Company
Ralphs first gained prominence in the late 1960s with Mott the Hoople, a band that rose to international fame with their hit All the Young Dudes, produced by David Bowie. His songwriting abilities shined with the original version of Ready for Love, which was later reimagined on Bad Company’s 1974 debut album.

That album, featuring tracks like Can’t Get Enough and Feel Like Makin’ Love, helped catapult Bad Company to international stardom. Ralphs’ songwriting and guitar work became central to the band’s signature sound—raw, melodic, and unmistakably powerful.

A Reluctant Star with Lasting Influence
Born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, Ralphs fell in love with blues guitar at an early age. He co-founded the Doc Thomas Group in the mid-1960s, which evolved into Mott the Hoople. Despite the band’s success during the glam rock era, Ralphs felt out of step with the genre’s theatrical direction and opted to move on.

In 1973, he joined forces with Paul Rodgers (of Free), Simon Kirke, and Boz Burrell to create Bad Company. Together, they produced a string of classic rock hits that continue to resonate with audiences today.

In a 1974 interview, Ralphs reflected on his approach to fame:

“I try not to buy into the fame. I want to be loved because of the music—not the image. Money fades. Egos collapse. But a good band? That lasts.”

A Lasting Musical Legacy
Though Ralphs was never one to seek the spotlight, his influence on rock music is undeniable. His soulful guitar work and memorable riffs helped shape the sound of a generation. His contributions continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

As fans revisit his timeless songs, Ralphs’ legacy lives on—not just in the music he created, but in the spirit of authenticity and passion he brought to the stage.

Rest in peace, Mick Ralphs. Your music will never be forgotten.