Mick Ralphs, of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, Dies

Share This:

Mick Ralphs (at R) with Simon Kirke and Paul Rodgers, in an undated photo via Bad Company’s Facebook page.

Mick Ralphs, a founding member of two legendary classic rock bands, Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died. The news of his passing at age 81 was shared on the Bad Company Facebook page just before 4:30 p.m. ET today (June 23, 2025). The guitarist and songwriter of such favorites as “Can’t Get Enough” and “Ready For Love” suffered a stroke shortly after Bad Company’s brief 2016 “Swan Song” U.K. tour ended on October 29 at The O2 in London.

Bad Company’s statement about Ralphs’ death: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mick Ralphs. He is survived by the love of his life, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three stepchildren and his beloved bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. He also leaves behind millions of devoted fans and friends across the world.”

“Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground,” said Rodgers. “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. Our last conversation a few days ago we shared a laugh but it won’t be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter. Condolences to everyone who loved him especially his one true love, Susie. I will see you in heaven.”

Kirke wrote, “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”

More from the statement: Rodgers of Free first met Ralphs in 1971. After an inspired jam session and a mutual sharing of songs, Ralphs made the bold decision to leave Mott the Hoople and form a new band with Rodgers, and Bad Company was born. Adding former King Crimson bassist/vocalist Boz Burrell and drummer Kirke, the band was complete. With the help of Led Zeppelin’s legendary manager Peter Grant, Bad Company became the first band signed to Zeppelin’s Swan Song label.

The group’s success was meteoric. Their 1974 self-titled debut went 5x platinum, reaching #1 in the U.S. and producing classic hits like “Can’t Get Enough” and “Movin’ On,” alongside electrifying rock anthems such as “Ready for Love,” “Rock Steady” and the title track “Bad Company.”

In a fitting tribute to the band’s enduring influence, Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year in 2025. (Burrell died in 2006.)

On March 20, a photo of Kirke and Ralphs was posted on the band’s Facebook page. The caption: “Hey everyone thanks for voting daily for our potential induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – Mick.”

Bad Company’s Mick Ralphs and Simon Kirke, in an undated photo posted to the band’s Facebook page on March 20, 2025.

Ralphs gave his final performance with Bad Company on October 29, 2016, at London’s O2 Arena. He had been scheduled to perform on November 4 with his side band, Mick Ralphs Blues Band, but just days after the tour ended, he suffered a debilitating stroke and remained bedridden until his passing.

Watch Bad Company with Ralphs perform “Can’t Get Enough” at that concert

Ralphs, born March 31, 1944, was among Mott the Hoople’s co-founders in 1969. Their biggest hit was the glam rock single, “All the Young Dudes,” written by David Bowie, who admired the band.