Legendary Rock Guitarist Mick Ralphs of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople Dies at 81, Leaving Lasting Legacy

The rock world is mourning the loss of Mick Ralphs, the revered guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of two of Britain’s most iconic rock bands: Bad Company and Mott the Hoople. Ralphs, 81, passed away following years of declining health after suffering a stroke in 2016 that left him bedridden.

Born in Herefordshire, England, Ralphs began his musical journey as a teenager immersed in blues guitar. In the late 1960s, he helped form the Doc Thomas Group, which evolved into Mott the Hoople by 1969. With the help of David Bowie—who gifted the band their breakthrough hit All the Young Dudes—Mott the Hoople rose to stardom, earning a revered place in rock history.

Despite their growing fame, Ralphs left Mott the Hoople in 1973, frustrated by vocal limitations and artistic differences. He went on to co-found Bad Company with former Free frontman Paul Rodgers, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. The collaboration was explosive. Their 1974 debut album Bad Company went five-times platinum, featuring Ralphs’ enduring classics like Can’t Get Enough and Ready for Love. The following albums, including Straight Shooter with hits like Feel Like Makin’ Love and Shooting Star, solidified Bad Company’s place among the greats of 70s rock.

Beyond his work with Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, Ralphs collaborated with legends like David Gilmour of Pink Floyd and rejoined various reunions of both bands over the years. His melodic guitar work, often underappreciated for its subtle power, was a defining element of the hard rock and blues-rock sound that dominated the 1970s.

Tributes poured in from friends and bandmates. Paul Rodgers expressed heartfelt sorrow, calling Ralphs “my friend, my songwriting partner, and an amazing guitarist with the greatest sense of humour.” Simon Kirke echoed the sentiment, describing Ralphs as “a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist.”

Ralphs is survived by his partner Susie Chavasse, two children, three step-children, and his beloved bandmates. He was set to be posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Bad Company this November — a final honor for a career that shaped the landscape of rock for generations.

Though he has passed, Mick Ralphs leaves behind a catalog of timeless music and a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world.