Fans Mourn the Loss of Mick Ralphs, Legendary Guitarist for Bad Company and Mott the HoopleLegendary British Guitarist Mick Ralphs Passes at 81
Fans around the globe are grieving the loss of Mick Ralphs, the legendary British guitarist and founding member of the iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople. The band confirmed his passing Monday via a statement on their official website. Ralphs was 81 years old.

The celebrated guitarist had been largely bedridden since suffering a stroke in 2016, shortly after performing what would be his final concert with Bad Company at London’s O2 Arena. While further details regarding his passing have not been disclosed, his death marks the end of an era for classic rock fans who grew up with his unmistakable riffs and timeless songwriting.

Paul Rodgers Pays Emotional Tribute
Bad Company frontman Paul Rodgers shared his heartbreak in a touching statement:

“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 humor.”

Ralphs was scheduled to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this November 2025 as a member of Bad Company, a recognition fans widely believe was long overdue.

From Mott the Hoople to Rock Stardom
Ralphs first rose to fame in the late 1960s as part of Mott the Hoople, the band that exploded into the spotlight thanks to David Bowie’s production on their 1972 hit All the Young Dudes. However, it was Ralphs’ own song Ready for Love that truly showcased his songwriting genius—originally recorded with Mott the Hoople, and later reimagined for Bad Company’s explosive 1974 self-titled debut album.

That same debut featured the enduring hit Can’t Get Enough, penned by Ralphs, which remains one of Bad Company’s signature songs. Just a year later, he co-wrote Feel Like Makin’ Love alongside Rodgers, further solidifying their place in rock history.