Legendary guitarist Mick Ralphs, the patriotic British rocker who co-founded Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died at 81, just months before his Hall of Fame induction.

Ralphs, known for penning American rock radio staples like “Can’t Get Enough” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” passed away after being bedridden since suffering a stroke in 2016. His passing marks the end of an era for classic rock fans who embraced his straightforward, no-nonsense guitar style that helped define the sound of 1970s rock music. Bad Company was set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this November in Los Angeles, adding a bittersweet note to Ralphs’ musical legacy that spanned over five decades of influencing American rock culture.

Rock Legend’s Final Curtain Call

Mick Ralphs’ death was confirmed Monday by Kymm Britton, who represented both Ralphs and his former bandmates. The iconic guitarist leaves behind a partner, two children, and three stepchildren who will carry on his legacy.

While no specific cause of death was provided, Ralphs had been confined to bed since suffering a debilitating stroke in 2016. His final performance with Bad Company took place that same year at London’s O2 Arena, capping a remarkable career that helped shape rock music for generations.

Former bandmate and Bad Company frontman Paul Rodgers paid tribute to his friend and musical partner with heartfelt words. “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground,” Rodgers said in a statement following the news.

Rodgers added that Ralphs “has left us with exceptional songs and memories,” calling him “my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humor.” The bond between these rock pioneers was evident in Rodgers’ final sentiment: “We shared a laugh, but it won’t be our last.”

From Mott the Hoople to Bad Company

Ralphs’ musical journey began in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, England, where he was born and later co-founded the Doc Thomas Group in the 1960s. This early band eventually evolved into Mott the Hoople in 1969, where Ralphs served as lead guitarist and occasional vocalist.

Mott the Hoople gained significant attention after David Bowie penned their hit “All the Young Dudes,” but creative differences led Ralphs to leave the band in 1973. His departure opened the door to forming Bad Company with Paul Rodgers, creating what would become one of rock’s most successful supergroups.

Bad Company and Mott The Hoople legend Mick Ralphs has died, aged 81

His Bad Company bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke are among the musicians who have paid tribute https://t.co/8dDJBBL6Om

— NME (@NME) June 24, 2025

Bad Company’s self-titled debut album skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard charts, with Ralphs’ composition “Can’t Get Enough” reaching No. 5 on the Hot 100. His straightforward approach to recording emphasized capturing authentic moments rather than technical perfection.

Ralphs once explained the band’s organic approach, saying, “We actually did the whole thing in one take live.” This commitment to musical authenticity resonated with American audiences who embraced the band’s no-frills rock sound during a time when progressive rock and disco were dominating the charts.

Musical Legacy and Influence

Ralphs’ songwriting prowess produced some of classic rock’s most enduring hits. “Ready for Love,” “Can’t Get Enough,” and co-writing “Feel Like Makin’ Love” cemented his place in rock history as both a guitarist and songwriter of exceptional talent.

Bad Company’s second album “Straight Shooter” continued their commercial success with hits like “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” further establishing Ralphs as a premier rock songwriter. His guitar work, characterized by bluesy riffs and melodic solos, helped define the band’s signature sound.

“We didn’t actually plan to have a band,” Ralphs once admitted about Bad Company’s formation, highlighting how organic their musical collaboration had been from the beginning.

Ralphs remained with Bad Company until 1982 before departing as the band’s sound evolved with changing music trends. He later returned for live performances, maintaining his connection to the music that made him famous while also exploring new creative avenues.

In his later career, Ralphs reunited with Mott the Hoople for shows in 2009 and formed The Mick Ralphs Blues Band in 2011, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to creating authentic rock music regardless of changing trends or industry pressures.

Hall of Fame Recognition

In a bittersweet turn of events, Ralphs’ passing comes just months before Bad Company is set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on November 8 in Los Angeles. This long-overdue recognition of the band’s contributions to rock music will now serve as a posthumous honor for Ralphs.

The timing of his death has prompted many fans to question why the Hall of Fame took so long to recognize Bad Company, whose straightforward rock approach influenced countless bands that followed. Many conservative rock fans have long criticized the Hall for what they perceive as bias against traditional rock acts in favor of more progressive or politically aligned artists.

Mick Ralphs, legendary guitarist and co-founder of Bad Company and Mott The Hoople, has died at 81. His timeless riffs and songwriting helped define rock music. The official obit here: https://t.co/1XeWFygsZ8

— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) June 23, 2025

Fellow musicians and industry insiders have been posting tributes across social media, celebrating Ralphs’ undeniable impact on rock music. His no-nonsense approach to guitar playing and songwriting embodied the spirit of rock’s golden era when musicianship and authentic expression were valued above image or politics.

As fans mourn the passing of yet another rock icon, Ralphs’ music continues to resonate through classic rock radio and streaming platforms, ensuring that new generations will discover the timeless quality of songs like “Can’t Get Enough” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love.” His straightforward approach to rock music stands in sharp contrast to today’s heavily produced pop landscape, reminding listeners of a time when authentic musical expression ruled the airwaves.

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Mick Ralphs, founding member of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, dead at 81

Mick Ralphs, founding member of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, dies at 81