Legendary classic rockers Bad Company will be honored later this year with their long overdue induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Sadly, their co-founding guitarist and frequent songwriter Mick Ralphs won’t be there for the honor, as the band announced he passed away at age 81.
Bad Company frontman Paul Rodgers said: “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 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 also co-founded another highly influential group, Mott The Hoople. The guitarist had unfortunately been in ill health since suffering a stroke just days after his final performance with Bad Company back in 2016. Some of the classic songs Ralphs had a hand in writing include Bad Company’s “Can’t Get Enough” and “Feel like Makin’ Love” as well as Mott The Hoople’s “Ready For Love.”
SiriusXM’s Eddie Trunk, who had long championed for Bad Company’s inclusion into the Rock Hall commented: “RIP Bad Company guitarist Mick Ralphs. Another sad case of the @rockhall snubbing an artist for so long , that key members now gone by the time they get in. Sad news.”
