Mick Ralphs, Legendary Guitarist of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, Dies at 81

LOS ANGELES – Mick Ralphs, the influential guitarist and songwriter who co-founded Bad Companyand helped shape the sound of Mott the Hoople, has died at 81. His family confirmed the news to Rolling Stone.

Ralphs had been in declining health since suffering a stroke in 2016 following a Bad Company tour. In recent years, he resided in a nursing home. His passing comes just months before Bad Company’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this November.

A Guitar Hero’s Legacy

Ralphs was the driving force behind some of classic rock’s most enduring riffs, writing or co-writing hits like:
✔ "Can’t Get Enough"
✔ "Feel Like Makin’ Love"
✔ "Bad Company"
✔ "Ready for Love" (first recorded with Mott the Hoople)

His raw, bluesy guitar work defined Bad Company’s sound, while his songwriting helped propel both bands to stardom.

Paul Rodgers, Bad Company’s frontman, paid tribute:
“Our Mick has passed—my heart just hit the ground. He left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing guitarist with the greatest sense of humor. I’ll see you in heaven, Mick.”

From Glam Rock to Hard-Hitting Blues

Before Bad Company, Ralphs was a founding member of Mott the Hoople, contributing to their first six albums—including the David Bowie-produced All the Young Dudes. Tensions with singer Ian Hunterled to his 1973 departure, but not before he penned early classics like "Rock and Roll Queen."

Teaming up with Rodgers, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell, Ralphs helped launch Bad Company in 1974. Backed by Led Zeppelin’s management, they became one of the era’s biggest bands, with their self-titled debut hitting No. 1 on the Billboard charts.

A Quiet Force

Known for his humble demeanor, Ralphs avoided rock-star theatrics. “It’s not literal; we don’t come into town and beat anybody up,” he once joked about the band’s name.

After Bad Company’s initial split in the 1980s, Ralphs released a solo album and later rejoined various reunions. Health issues eventually limited his touring, but he remained proud of the band’s legacy. Earlier this year, he celebrated their Rock Hall nomination, calling it “fantastic.”

Final Notes

Ralphs is survived by his wife, Susie Chavasse, two children, and three stepchildren. His guitar work and songwriting remain a cornerstone of rock history—ensuring his riffs, and his legend, will never fade.