Mick Ralphs, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died at the age of 81. A spokesperson for his family confirmed the news, noting that Ralphs had been in poor health for several years. Known for his influential songwriting and signature guitar work, Ralphs played a key role in shaping British rock throughout the 1970s.
Here’s what we know so far about Mick Ralphs’ death.
Mick Ralphs cause of death explained
Mick Ralphs, guitarist, songwriter, and founding member of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died at the age of 81.
A representative confirmed the news on June 23, 2025. No cause of death was disclosed, although Ralphs had been in poor health for nearly a decade (via Variety.)
Born on March 31, 1944, in Herefordshire, Ralphs began his music career in his teens. He co-founded Mott the Hoople, which signed with Island Records in 1969. The band rose to fame after David Bowie gifted them the song “All the Young Dudes,” which became a major hit in both the UK and US. Ralphs contributed significantly to the band’s sound with songs like “Rock and Roll Queen” and “Ready for Love.”
In 1973, Ralphs left Mott the Hoople due to creative differences and formed Bad Company with Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, and Boz Burrell. Managed by Peter Grant and signed to Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song label, Bad Company’s 1974 debut album went five-times platinum. Ralphs wrote or co-wrote several of the band’s hits, including “Can’t Get Enough,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad.”
Ralphs also toured with David Gilmour in 1984 and participated in a Mott the Hoople reunion in 2009. In 2016, he suffered a stroke following a Bad Company tour and has since resided in a nursing home. Bad Company is set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later in 2025.
Paul Rodgers said, “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground… I will see you in heaven.” Simon Kirke added, “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
His partner Susie Chavasse, two children, and three step-children survive Ralphs.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on ComingSoon.net.
