The rock world is once again in mourning over the death of Mick Ralphs.
The founding member of Mott the Hoople and Bad Company, died at the age of 81.
"Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories.” Paul Rodgers shared. “He was my friend, my songwriting 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."
Ralphs was due to join the other members of Bad Company, for their induction to the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame, as the band was one of the top vote getters for this year’s nominations.
"He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply." Simon Kirke added.
In 2016, Ralphs was hospitalized with a stroke, which lead to his officially retiring from performing. Ralphs was born in England in 1944 and joined the long list of guitar legends that began playing in local clubs in the early '60s. By,1969, he formed his own band with Mott The Hoople, as the Glam band would hit big with the David Bowie written “All the Young Dudes”, making them one of the most influential Glam bands of all time.
By 1973, Glam lost its steam and Ralphs would leave Mott The Hoople to form the supergroup Bad Company with Paul Rodgers of Free. The band would become one of the most successful and influential bands of the 70’s, rocking the scene with classics like “Bad Company”, “Shooting Star” and the Ralphs written “Can’t get Enough Of Your Love”.
Bad Company would go their separate ways by the end of the decade, and Ralphs would go on to play with David Gilmour, as well as release a handful of solo albums. In the mid 80’s he would reform Bad Company, with new lead singer Brian Howe and enjoy new found success in the MTV 80’s.
Mick Ralphs is one of the most underrated guitarists and song writers of his era, considering the impact of his work over the years. His legacy is that of a great musician in two iconic bands and a writer of some of the great Hard Rock classics of all time.