Leaving behind a legacy of freedom-loving, all-American rock music that defined a generation, another rock icon has passed away.
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His passing marks the end of an era for patriotic music lovers who grew up with the authentic sounds of 1970s rock.
Mick Ralphs’ death was confirmed through Bad Company’s official channels, though no specific cause was disclosed.
The guitarist had been in poor health for nearly a decade after suffering a debilitating stroke in 2016 that left him bedridden and ended his touring career.
Born in 1944 in Herefordshire, England, Ralphs began his musical journey as a teenager. He eventually formed the Doc Thomas Group, which evolved into Mott The Hoople with Ian Hunter as lead singer.
The band gained significant recognition with David Bowie’s help, particularly with their hit “All the Young Dudes.”
In 1973, Ralphs made the bold decision to leave Mott The Hoople to form Bad Company alongside Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke.
The supergroup signed with Led Zeppelin’s record label, Swan Song, and immediately achieved success with their self-titled debut album, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 charts.
Paul Rodgers wrote after Ralphs’ passing:
“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.”
As a songwriter and guitarist, Ralphs was the creative force behind many of Bad Company’s greatest hits, including “Can’t Get Enough” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love.”
These songs remain staples on classic rock radio stations nationwide, representing the kind of authenticity.
In addition, Ralphs’ distinctive guitar work and songwriting talent extended beyond his main bands.
Later in his career, he collaborated with George Harrison on “Flying Hour” and toured with Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour in 1984.
He also participated in a 2009 Mott The Hoople reunion, which showed his versatility and enduring relevance in the rock world.
In a fitting tribute to his contributions to rock music, Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year.
This recognition comes at a bittersweet time, as Ralphs will not be able to attend the ceremony that celebrates a band that helped define American rock music for generations of patriots.
Tributes have poured in from across the rock music world, including heartfelt messages from Joe Elliott of Def Leppard and David Coverdale of Deep Purple and Whitesnake.
These tributes highlight not only Ralphs’ musical genius but also his character and impact on fellow musicians in an industry that has drastically changed since his heyday.
The late legend is survived by his partner Susie Chavasse, two children, three step-children, and his bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke.
His legacy lives on not just in the Rock Hall of Fame but in the hearts of millions of Americans who found freedom, joy, and a patriotic spirit in unfiltered, authentic rock music, which has become increasingly rare in today’s entertainment landscape.
In Memoriam: As a founding member of Mott the Hoople and 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Bad Company, Mick Ralphs helped define the sounds of 1970s hard rock and glam rock with his economical yet powerful guitar playing. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/LUGZ7wqA7J
— Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (@rockhall) June 23, 2025
