Founding member of Bad Company and Mott The Hoople, Mick Ralphs has died at 81. The multi-talented musician had been suffering with bad health problem since having a stroke in 2016. No cause of death has been given at the time being.
His bandmates from the Bad Company band, Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, have both paid their respects to their long-term friend on social media saying: “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my song writing partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humor. 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.”
Kirke added to the tribute: “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
Back in 2016, Bad Company had announced a US tour with Joe Walsh with Mick re-joining the band and taking his spot back from Rich Robinson of the Black Crowes. However, not long after the tour started, it was announced Mick had been hospitalised after suffering from a stroke. The band still went on tour, with his bandmates, Howard Leese and Paul Rodgers playing his parts.
Prior to being a part of Bad Company, Mick had formed Mott The Hooplee in 1969. The rock group had a breakthrough after releasing their most famous songs, produced by David Bowie himself, ‘All The Young Dudes’ in 1972. Bowie had initially offered the group his hit ‘Suffragette City’ but they rejected it and stated they had split up. In 1973, Mick departed the band following their Top 10 LP ‘Mott’. Bad Company’s debut album was released a year later, in 1974, and featured the hit ‘Can’t Get Enough’.
Mick’s death comes just a few months before Bad Company are set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in November. He leaves behind his wife, Susie Chavasse, his two children and three step-children.
