Guitarist Mick Ralphs (Bad Company, Mott The Hoople) dies at 81

The legendary British guitarist Mick Ralphs, known for being a member of Mott The Hoople and Bad Company, passed away at the age of 81. The news was shared by Bad Co.’s social media and noted that Ralphs’ final show with the band was in 2016  and a few days later, the musician suffered a debilitating stroke and remained bedridden until his passing.

Read the complete statament about the death of Mick Ralph

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mick Ralphs. Mick Ralphs, the influential guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott The Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81. He is survived by the love of his life, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children and his beloved bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. He also leaves behind millions of devoted fans and friends across the world.”

“‘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. Our last conversation a few days ago we shared a laugh but it won’t be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter. Condolences to everyone who loved him especially his one true love, Susie. I will see you in heaven.’ Love Paul”.

It continued:

“’He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply,’ Simon Kirke. Paul Rodgers of Free first met Mick Ralphs in 1971. After an inspired jam session and a mutual sharing of songs, Ralphs made the bold decision to leave Mott The Hoople and form a new band with Rodgers, and Bad Company was born. Adding former King Crimson bassist/vocalist Boz Burrell and drummer Simon Kirke, the band was complete. With the help of Led Zeppelin’s legendary manager Peter Grant, Bad Company became the first band signed to Zeppelin’s Swan Song label.”

“The group’s success was meteoric. Their 1974 self-titled debut went five-times platinum, producing classic hits like ‘Can’t Get Enough’ and ‘Movin’ On,’ alongside rock anthems such as ‘Ready for Love,’ and the title track ‘Bad Company.’ In a fitting tribute to the band’s enduring influence, Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year in 2025.”

“Ralphs gave his final performance with Bad Company on October 29, 2016, at London’s O2 Arena. Just days later, he suffered a debilitating stroke and remained bedridden until his passing. Mick Ralphs leaves behind a powerful musical legacy that will to inspire generations,” the official statement said.

Mick Ralphs’ discography

Solo

• 1984 – Take This – Re-edited on CD in 1996
• 2001 – It’s All Good – Recorded live in 1999 with Simon Kirke and Boz Burrell
• 2003 – That’s Life

Mott the Hoople

• 1969 – Mott the Hoople
• 1970 – Mad Shadows
• 1971 – Wildlife
• 1971 – Brain Capers
• 1972 – All the Young Dudes
• 1972 – Rock and Roll Queen (compilation album)
• 1973 – Mott
• 1974 – The Hoople – Ralphs sang backup vocals on “Pearl ‘n’ Roy (England)” and played rhythm guitar on “Roll Away the Stone”.

Bad Company

• 1974 – Bad Company
• 1975 – Straight Shooter
• 1976 – Run With The Pack
• 1977 – Burnin’ Sky
• 1979 – Desolation Angels
• 1982 – Rough Diamonds
• 1985 – 10 from 6 – Compilation
• 1986 – Fame and Fortune
• 1988 – Dangerous Age
• 1990 – Holy Water
• 1992 – Here Comes Trouble
• 1993 – What You Hear Is What You Get: The Best of Bad Company – Live album
• 1995 – Company of Strangers
• 1996 – Stories Told & Untold
• 1999 – The ‘Original’ Bad Co. Anthology
• 2006 – Live in Albuquerque 1976
• 2010 – Hard Rock Live
• 2011 – Live at Wembley
• 2016 – Live in Concert 1977 & 1979

Mick Ralphs Blues Band

• 2013 – I Should Know Better
• 2016 – If It Ain’t Broke