Rock and roll has lost another legend as Mick Ralphs, co-founder of Bad Company and architect of authentic American rock music, has died at 81.
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The iconic guitarist, whose distinctive sound helped shape the soundtrack of the 1970s, leaves behind a legacy of straight-shooting rock that starkly contrasts today’s manufactured music scene.
Ralphs, known for his exceptional guitar work and songwriting talents, passed away after years of declining health following a stroke in 2016 that left him bedridden.
No specific cause of death was disclosed by the band, which announced his passing on their official website.
Born in 1944 in Herefordshire, England, Ralphs began his musical journey as a teenager before co-founding Mott the Hoople in 1969.
He appeared on six albums with the group, including their breakthrough “All the Young Dudes,” produced by David Bowie, before leaving in 1973 to form Bad Company with Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke from Free.
Bad Company quickly established themselves as rock heavyweights, signing with Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song record label and scoring immediate success with their self-titled 1974 debut album.
The record became their only No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and featured the Ralph-penned hit “Can’t Get Enough.”
The band continued their success throughout the 1970s with hits like “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” which Ralphs co-wrote with Rodgers.
Rodgers wrote, “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, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humour…”
Unlike many of today’s fleeting music acts, Ralphs built a career on authentic musicianship and genuine talent.
Throughout his career, he collaborated with rock legends, including working with David Gilmour on a solo tour in 1984 and co-writing “Flying Hour” with George Harrison.
His contributions to American rock helped create a sound that defined an era of freedom and self-expression that many music fans still cherish today.
Ralphs’ passing comes as Bad Company is set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year, a long-overdue recognition of their contributions to music.
His last performance with the band was in October 2016, shortly before suffering the stroke that would sideline him for the remainder of his life.
The outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians highlights the respect Ralphs commanded in the rock world.
Mick Ralphs, the guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the legendary ‘70s rock band Bad Company has died. He was 81.https://t.co/UXE7X8cuq7 pic.twitter.com/LYueWrtcac
— Variety (@Variety) June 23, 2025
Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott wrote, “I just heard the news…totally heartbroken. Mick has been a constant companion through my musical journey & he was one of the kindest souls I ever met. The world is a poorer place today.”
Drummer Simon Kirke fondly remembered his bandmate: “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
Ralphs is survived by his partner Susie Chavasse, two children, three step-children, and longtime bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke.
His legacy lives on in the timeless music that continues to resonate with generations of rock fans who appreciate genuine musical craftsmanship over auto-tuned mediocrity.
