Mick Ralphs, Guitarist and Cofounder of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, Dies at 81
Last edited Tue Jun 24, 2025, 12:56 AM - Edit history (1)
Source: Variety
Mick Ralphs, the guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the legendary '70s rock bands Bad Company and Mott The Hoople, has died, according to an announcement from his rep. No cause of death was disclosed, although he had been in poor health for nearly a decade; he was 81.
Ralphs' tasteful, authoritative and often-underrated guitar work and songwriting acumen were a trademark of both bands across the 1970s. He wrote or cowrote such hits as "Can't Get Enough" and "Feel Like Makin' Love" for Bad Company, "Rock and Roll Queen" and "One of the Boys" for Mott, and "Ready for Love," which was recorded by both bands. Later in his career he co-wrote "Flying Hour" with George Harrison.
Ralphs is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children and his bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke.
Rodgers wrote, "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."
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Read more: https://variety.com/2025/music/news/mick-ralphs-bad-company-mott-the-hoople-dead-1236438527/
RIP.
Mick had suffered a stroke in 2016, had been bedridden since then.
Great guitarist and songwriter.
His song "Can't Get Enough" was their first single and biggest hit. Top of the Pops, 1974:
Two of the beautiful songs Mick wrote, performed in 1974 and 2008:
Editing to add this video from 1973, Mick in Mott the Hoople, performing the classic David Bowie wrote for them:
= new reply since forum marked as read
Their music stands the test of time.
I love watching people on YouTube watching and listening to them for the first time.
I have never seen a bad review.
This makes me very sad.
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