Rock Legend Gone: Mick Ralphs of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople Dies at 81
Mick Ralphs, the iconic British guitarist and founding member of both Mott the Hoople and Bad Company, has died at the age of 81. Known for his gritty guitar riffs, soulful songwriting, and understated stage presence, Ralphs played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of classic rock in the 1970s.
Born in Herefordshire, England, in 1944, Ralphs began his musical career in the 1960s with the blues-based Doc Thomas Group. That band evolved into Mott the Hoople, which would go on to achieve cult fame. Mott’s breakthrough came in 1972 with the David Bowie-penned anthem “All the Young Dudes.” Ralphs’ bluesy guitar work, along with his contributions as a songwriter, helped the band rise to prominence during the glam rock era. He co-wrote standout tracks such as “Rock and Roll Queen” and sang the original version of “Ready for Love,” which would later become a signature song for Bad Company.
In 1973, Ralphs left Mott the Hoople to form a new supergroup with former Free frontman Paul Rodgers, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. The band, named Bad Company, released its debut album in 1974 and quickly shot to stardom. Their self-titled debut featured hits like “Can’t Get Enough,” “Movin’ On,” and a reworked “Ready for Love.” Ralphs’ stripped-down guitar style, rich in tone and emotion, defined the sound of Bad Company and made the group one of the defining rock acts of the decade.
The band’s second album, Straight Shooter, solidified their success with chart-topping hits such as “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” co-written by Ralphs. Over the years, Bad Company sold millions of albums and played to packed arenas around the world, with Ralphs as the quiet backbone of their thunderous sound.
Despite his fame, Ralphs was known for his modesty and focus on the music rather than celebrity. He never courted the spotlight, but his work influenced generations of guitarists and songwriters. In the 1980s, he toured with Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour and later formed the Mick Ralphs Blues Band, where he continued to explore his passion for blues and rock in a more intimate setting.
In 2016, Ralphs suffered a stroke shortly after a performance at London’s O2 Arena, which ended his ability to perform live. He spent his remaining years in care, surrounded by loved ones and remembered by fans for his contributions to rock history.
Mick Ralphs is survived by his family, including his partner Susie Chavasse and children. His music lives on in the iconic riffs and timeless songs he helped create. With his passing, rock has lost a quiet giant—an artist whose legacy is etched into the DNA of classic rock forever.
