Mick Ralphs Tribute: Bad Company & Mott the Hoople Guitarist Dies at 81

June 23, 2025 rocknews

“Ready for Love, Gone Too Soon: A Tribute to Mick Ralphs”

Mick Ralphs, the quietly brilliant guitarist and songwriter behind Mott the Hoople and Bad Company, has died at the age of 81. Though he never chased the spotlight, his riffs and melodies helped define British rock in the 1970s—and his influence still echoes through guitar amps today.

Born Michael Geoffrey Ralphs in Hereford, England, on March 31, 1944, he began his musical journey in the mid-’60s with blues-rock outfit The Buddies. But it was with Mott the Hoople—a band that fused glam swagger with working-class grit—that Ralphs first made his mark. Their 1972 hit “All the Young Dudes,” gifted by David Bowie, became a glam-rock anthem, and Ralphs’ melodic solo helped elevate it to classic status.

In 1973, Ralphs left Mott to co-found Bad Company, teaming up with former Free vocalist Paul Rodgers, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. Their self-titled debut album in 1974 was a juggernaut, reaching No. 1 in the U.S. and launching Ralphs’ signature track, “Can’t Get Enough.” Known for its open-C tuning and gritty tone, the song remains a staple of classic rock radio.

Ralphs wasn’t a flashy player—he didn’t need to be. His guitar work was all about feel, groove, and economy. Whether it was the bluesy stomp of “Movin’ On” or the sultry swagger of “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” he had a knack for writing riffs that stuck in your head and solos that served the song.

He toured and recorded with Bad Company until the early ’80s, later reuniting for various lineups and tours. In 1984, he joined David Gilmour’s About Face tour, and in 1985, he released a solo album, Take This. Despite a fear of flying that limited his touring, Ralphs remained a revered figure in rock circles. His final performance came in 2016 at London’s O2 Arena, after which he suffered a debilitating stroke.

He is survived by his partner Susie Chavasse, two children, three step-children, and a legacy that spans decades of rock history.

Top 5 Mick Ralphs Songs

“Can’t Get Enough” – Bad Company (1974)
Ralphs’ signature riff and open-C tuning made this an instant classic.
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” – Bad Company (1975)
A slow-burning anthem co-written with Paul Rodgers, showcasing Ralphs’ dynamic range.
“All the Young Dudes” – Mott the Hoople (1972)
Bowie may have written it, but Ralphs’ solo gave it wings.
“Movin’ On” – Bad Company (1974)
A bluesy, road-ready rocker originally intended for Mott.
“Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” – Bad Company (1975)
A punchy, riff-driven track that highlights Ralphs’ raw power.