Mick Ralphs, a key figure in rock music as a guitarist and songwriter, co-founded the renowned bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople. Ralphs passed away at the age of 81 on June 23, 2025, at a care facility in Henley-on-Thames, England, as confirmed by the official announcement from Bad Company.

An official cause of death was not disclosed. Ralphs had been bedridden since experiencing a stroke in late 2016, shortly after his last performance with Bad Company at London’s O2 Arena in October of that year, which effectively ended his active performing career.

Paul Rodgers, the vocalist for Bad Company, conveyed his sorrow over the loss of his long-time collaborator. In a statement, Rodgers mentioned Ralphs’ legacy of remarkable songs and memories, calling him a friend, songwriting partner, and versatile guitarist with a great sense of humor. Rodgers noted that their final conversation, just days before Ralphs’ death, included a shared laugh.

Simon Kirke, the drummer and one of the surviving members of Bad Company’s classic lineup, described Ralphs as a cherished friend and talented songwriter whose guitar skills would be sorely missed. Both Rodgers and Kirke highlighted Ralphs’ significant impact on the band’s success and their enduring friendship.

Born Michael Geoffrey Ralphs on March 31, 1944, in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, England, he began playing guitar in his teens. Ralphs initially formed the Doc Thomas Group in 1966, which later evolved into Mott the Hoople by 1969 after signing with Island Records.

The band Mott the Hoople gained major success in 1972 with “All the Young Dudes,” a song written and produced by David Bowie. The track reached number three on the UK singles chart, reviving the band’s career as they had considered disbanding. Ralphs was pivotal in shaping the band’s sound during this period, contributing to hits like “All the Way From Memphis” and “Honaloochie Boogie.”

Despite the success, Ralphs grew dissatisfied with the band’s vocal range and left in 1973 to explore a new direction. He teamed up with Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, who were formerly of the band Free, and bassist Boz Burrell from King Crimson, to form Bad Company.

Bad Company quickly found success after signing with Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song label, under the management of Peter Grant. Their debut album in 1974 went five times platinum, featuring Ralphs’ songs “Can’t Get Enough” and a reimagined version of “Ready for Love,” initially written for Mott the Hoople.

Ralphs showcased his songwriting skills by co-writing “Feel Like Makin’ Love” with Rodgers, which became a major hit. His guitar work and compositions were central to Bad Company’s sound during the 1970s, contributing to their standing as one of the decade’s top rock bands. The group sold 40 million records worldwide over their career.

Ralphs described Bad Company’s music as straightforward and said that they preferred simple songs and a simple style that resonated with listeners. He noted their inclination towards blues and rhythm-and-blues influences over orchestral arrangements, emphasizing their passion for music that felt genuine.

Though Bad Company disbanded in 1982, they reunited several times in later years. Ralphs remained active, touring with Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour in 1984 and reuniting with Mott the Hoople in 2009. He also led the Mick Ralphs Blues Band and performed with various formations of Bad Company until his 2016 stroke.

Ralphs’ death holds special significance as Bad Company was selected for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2025. The induction ceremony is set for November 8 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Ralphs had expressed his joy at the recognition, and Kirke noted his gratitude that Ralphs would be honored in his lifetime.

Ralphs is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, described by Bad Company as “the love of his life,” as well as two children and three stepchildren. His bandmates, Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, remain to continue his musical legacy.

Verden Allen, a founding member of Mott the Hoople, reflected on Ralphs’ death by expressing sadness but also highlighting the lasting memories they shared. This sentiment underscores the influence Ralphs had on his fellow musicians throughout his extensive career in rock music.