Mick Ralphs, guitarist for Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81.

Mick Ralphs, the esteemed English guitarist and songwriter, renowned for his involvement as a co-founder of iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was confirmed on the official social media channels of Bad Company on June 23, 2025, signaling the loss of a significant figure in the rock music community.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Paul Rodgers, lead vocalist of Bad Company and a close friend, reflected on Ralphs’ impact, noting that he left behind a legacy filled with exceptional music and cherished memories. Rodgers emphasized the camaraderie they shared, both as friends and as songwriting partners, acknowledging Ralphs’ remarkable versatility as a guitarist and his impressive sense of humor. Their final conversation just days before Ralphs’ passing was described as a warm exchange filled with laughter.

Other band members also paid tribute to Ralphs, highlighting his talent and friendship. Simon Kirke, the drummer for Bad Company, remarked on Ralphs’ extraordinary songwriting abilities and his exceptional skills as a guitarist, expressing a deep sense of loss felt by the group and its followers.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ralphs made significant contributions to rock music, particularly through his work with Bad Company, known for chart-topping hits such as “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Bad Company.” The band has recently been named to the 2025 class of inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to their enduring influence within the genre.

Before co-founding Bad Company, Ralphs was an integral part of the blues-rock band Mott the Hoople, which gained recognition for the hit single “All The Young Dudes,” penned by David Bowie. After departing from Mott the Hoople in 1973, Ralphs established Bad Company, where he contributed to a dozen albums throughout his tenure.

While the cause of his death has yet to be disclosed, it is known that Ralphs had been grappling with health issues, having been bedridden due to complications following a stroke he suffered shortly after a Bad Company performance at London’s O2 Arena on October 29, 2016. In the intervening years, he resided in a nursing home.

Born on March 31, 1944, in Hereford, Mick Ralphs is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, and three step-children, leaving behind a legacy that will resonate with music fans for years to come.