Bad Company Guitarist Mick Ralphs Dead at 81: 'He Left Us with Exceptional Songs and Memories'

Published: June 23, 2025

Mick Ralphs, the founding lead guitarist of the 1970s English rock band Bad Company, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was announced on Monday, June 23, and surviving bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke paid tribute to Ralphs.

Ralphs was a founding member of Bad Company, and was also part of Mott the Hoople. His last performance was in 2016, and he suffered a debilitating stroke days later, leaving him bedridden until his death.

"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," Rodgers said in a statement.

"He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist," Kirke added. "We will miss him deeply."

Ralphs was born in 1944 in Herefordshire, England, and began playing music as a teenager. He performed in the band Doc Thomas Group in the 1960s before joining Mott the Hoople, where he appeared on six of their albums, including All the Young Dudes, which was produced by David Bowie.

After leaving Mott the Hoople, Ralphs formed Bad Company with Rodgers, Kirke, and King Crimson bassist/vocalist Boz Burrell. The group signed with Led Zeppelin's record label Swan Song thanks to Zeppelin's manager, Peter Grant.

During Ralphs' tenure with Bad Company, the group released hit songs "Can't Get Enough," "Movin' On," "Ready for Love," "Silver, Blue and Gold," "Shooting Star," and "Rock Steady." Their 1974 self-titled debut album was their only No. 1 album on the Billboard 200.

Bad Company is one of seven performers who will be inducted into the Rock 'N' Roll Hall of Fame in November. Ralphs said about the induction, "I am elated, it feels great...fabulous to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."

Ralphs is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children, and his beloved bandmates.

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