Mick Ralphs was a founding member of Bad Company, a rock band who enjoyed success throughout the 1970s with the likes of Can’t Get Enough and Feel Like Makin’ Love
Mick Ralphs – who co-founded rock supergroup Bad Company – has died aged 81.
The rock star was guitarist in the band he co-created in 1973 and remained in it until he suffered a stroke in 2016. Complications of this led to his death, confirmed on Bad Company’s official website late on Monday. It said Ralphs, born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, is “survived by the love of his life, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children”, as well as his bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke.
A statement from Rodgers, who was singer in the band, on the website said: “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.
“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.”
Bad Company enjoyed success in the 1970s, both in the UK and in the US. Their debut single Can’t Get Enough reached 15th in the UK charts in 1973, and peaked at fifth in the US.
Ralphs would play a key part in the band’s success for the next 40 years, making his last performance in London in 2016, days before his stroke. Speaking yesterday, drummer Kirke said: “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
Rodgers and Kirke joined forces with Ralphs in the 1970s after they were in Free. Ralps, who was guitarist in Mott the Hoople, persuaded his chums on board with the new project – and their strength grew. Bad Company are due to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year.
The group’s self-titled debut album included hits such as Can’t Get Enough and Movin’ On, and reached number three in the UK albums chart and went five-times platinum.
Bad Company later released Straight Shooter in 1975, followed by Run With The Pack, and both made it into the top five in the albums chart. They were also known for rock anthems including Ready For Love, Rock Steady and the title track Bad Company.
Ralph’s former project, Mott The Hoople, was formed in the area in which he grew up – rural Herefordshire. Their 1972 song All The Young Dudes, penned by David Bowie, reached third in the UK charts and remains a glam rock anthem.
But Kirke told the Bob Lefsetz Podcast in 2023 that the stroke had left Ralphs paralysed down the left hand side of his body. He said: “He’s in a nursing home in England. So he’s really, his health is not good and certainly his playing days are over. So you know, we had a good run, and I think we’re going to lay the old Bad Company to rest pretty soon.”
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