Passing of Mick Ralphs
Mick Ralphs, the renowned vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, who helped establish the iconic British rock groups Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81.
His death was confirmed through an announcement on the band’s official website this Monday. Ralphs had suffered a stroke shortly after his last performance with Bad Company, which took place at the O2 Arena in London in 2016. Since then, he had been confined to bed. The announcement did not elaborate on the specific details of his passing.
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
It was recently announced that Ralphs will be posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Bad Company this coming November.
Paul Rodgers, the lead singer of Bad Company, expressed his grief in a statement, saying, “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He leaves behind extraordinary songs and memories. He was not only my friend and songwriting partner but also an incredible and adaptable guitarist with the best sense of humor.”
Ralphs’ songwriting contributions include the 1970 hit “Ready for Love” for Mott the Hoople, which he later reworked for Bad Company’s debut album in 1974. This album also featured Ralphs’ popular track “Can’t Get Enough.” Additionally, he co-wrote the 1975 hit “Feel Like Makin’ Love” with Rodgers.
Early Life and Career
Born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, England, Ralphs took up the blues guitar in his teenage years. By his early twenties, in 1966, he co-founded the Doc Thomas Group, which was later renamed Mott the Hoople in 1969. He departed from the group in 1973, following their successful hit “All the Young Dudes,” which was written and produced by David Bowie.
Following his time with Mott the Hoople, Ralphs formed Bad Company along with Paul Rodgers, who had recently left his band, Free. They were joined by Simon Kirke, the drummer from Free, and Boz Burrell, a former bassist and vocalist for King Crimson.
On his passing, Simon Kirke stated, “Mick was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
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Fatima Clarke is a seasoned health reporter who bridges medical science with human stories. She writes with compassion, precision, and a drive to inform.
