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Mick Ralphs, Bad Company and Mott the Hoople co-founder, dead at 81

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Mick Ralphs, a guitarist who helped form the ’70s rock group Mott the Hoople and the band Bad Company, has passed away. He was 81 years old.

Ralph’s passing has been verified by his representative, but the specific date and reason for his demise remain undisclosed.

Paul Rodgers, lead singer of Bad Company, announced the passing of their bandmate, Mick. In a statement, he said, ‘My heart has taken a heavy blow.’ He leaves us with incredible music and cherished memories. Mick was not just my bandmate, but also my friend and collaborator, an incredibly talented and humorous guitarist. Our recent conversation was filled with laughter, and I believe we’ll continue to share more. May the funny stories about Mick bring joy to all who knew him. My deepest sympathies go out to everyone who loved him, especially his beloved Susie. I look forward to reuniting with Mick in the hereafter.

In 1944, Ralph was born in Herefordshire, England. In the mid-60’s, he teamed up to create the Doc Thomas Group, which later signed with Island Records and transformed into Mott the Hoople following some personnel shifts. Ralph’s songwriting and guitar skills played a significant role in transitioning rock ‘n’ roll from the psychedelic era of the 60’s to the strutting and pompous glam of the 70’s. Their energetic live performances garnered a dedicated fanbase, with David Bowie and Mick Jones of the Clash being early admirers. However, they struggled to find success on the charts.

Under Bowie’s request, the group switched management and experienced a significant boost in their career when he generously gave them his song “All The Young Dudes.” This track was the title track for their 1972 album, which became a worldwide hit. Their subsequent release, titled “Mott,” was equally successful, featuring popular singles such as “All the Way From Memphis” and “Honaloochie Boogie.

However, Ralph wasn’t content with just being in the band and decided to leave in 1973. He teamed up with former Free members Rodgers and Simon Kirke, as well as ex-King Crimson bassist Boz Burrell, to form a new supergroup.

Bad Company was among the initial artists to join the Swan Song label owned by Led Zeppelin, swiftly achieving worldwide fame. Their 1974 self-titled album achieved five times platinum status, with popular tracks such as “Can’t Get Enough” and a revised version of Ralphs’ “Ready for Love,” which he had previously recorded with Mott the Hoople. The subsequent album, “Straight Shooter,” included the enduring classic rock anthem “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and Bad Company continued to dominate charts until disbanding in 1982.

In 2009, Mott the Hoople welcomed Ralph back for a reunion tour. He also played with different versions of Bad Company and his own Mick Ralphs Blues Band until he had a stroke in 2016, which left him bedridden in his later life. His last concert with Bad Company took place at London’s O2 Arena in 2016. This band is set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year.

I can truly say he was a cherished companion, an amazing lyricist, and a phenomenal guitar player,” I expressed in a statement. “His absence will be greatly felt.

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

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2025-06-24 04:01

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