Mick Ralphs, the legendary British guitarist, singer, and songwriter, who was globally renowned for his pioneering work with Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died.
The respected musician passed away at the age of 81. Ralphs was instrumental in shaping the sound of classic British rock throughout the 1970s, and his musical legacy continues to influence generations of artists.
How Did Mick Ralphs Die?
The news regarding the death of Mick Ralphs has since gone viral around the internet and has made several headlines in the global press as well. His passing was confirmed in a formal statement that was released on Bad Company’s official website.
Since the news of his death emerged, many questions have been asked about Mick Ralphs and the foremost among those questions is how the Bad Company founding member died. Everyone is curious to know what happened to him in his final hours.
Mick Ralphs Suffered A Stroke In 2016
Mick Ralphs had been battling with an ailment in the years leading up to his death. Our findings show that the acclaimed guitarist and songwriter had suffered a debilitating stroke in 2016 shortly after performing with Bad Company at London’s O2 Arena. The singer was rushed to the hospital as the situation was very bad at the time.
The situation was so bad that it marked his final appearance on stage. And it appears that he never recovered from the stroke. He remained bedridden from that time until his death. In fact, Ralphs had been in a nursing home in recent years prior to his sad passing.
So, while the exact cause of death has not been publicly and officially disclosed yet, it is believed that his passing may have something to do with complications from the stroke he suffered years earlier. Official statement, if ever released, will certainly clear up any confusion about this.
Announcing Mick Ralphs’ death, Paul Rodgers, Bad Company’s frontman and Ralphs’ longtime collaborator said:
“Mick has passed, and my heart just hit the ground. He leaves behind not only remarkable songs and performances but also unforgettable memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, and one of the most gifted and versatile guitarists I’ve ever known. His humor and heart were unmatched.”
Ralphs Had a Career That Was Defined by Innovation and Influence
It is hard to simply state how important Mick Ralphs was to rock music because his net impact on genre is quite immeasurable. Born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, England, Ralphs developed a passion for blues guitar during his teenage years.
Ralphs became very immersed in making music as a child and it was very clear to everyone that he was going to do music when he grew up. It was only a matter of time before it happened.
While still a teenager, he began his career by playing with blues-rock band the Buddies. In fact, he went on to even release a single with that group in 1964 at about 19 years old.
Two years later, in 1966, he co-founded the Doc Thomas Group, which would later evolve into Mott the Hoople in 1969. His guitar work and songwriting significantly contributed to the band’s unique blend of glam and hard rock. Among his standout compositions was “Ready for Love”, originally recorded with Mott the Hoople and later reimagined for Bad Company’s self-titled debut album.
In 1973, Ralphs decided to depart from the Mott the Hoople band. Our findings show that growing tension between Hunter and Ralphs was what led to Ralphs leaving the band. Ralphs left the group shortly after their breakthrough success with “All the Young Dudes”, a track that was written and produced by the legendary English singer, songwriter and actor, David Bowie.
That same year, he co-founded the band, Bad Company alongside vocalist Paul Rodgers (formerly of Free), drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist/vocalist Boz Burrell of King Crimson. Their debut album, Bad Company (1974), became an instant classic, propelled by hits like “Can’t Get Enough”, written by Ralphs himself.
Ralphs and Rodgers continued to co-write many of the band’s signature songs, including the chart-topping single “Feel Like Makin’ Love” from their 1975 album Straight Shooter. The band grew to become one of the most well known and most renowned bands in the UK and around then world.
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Tributes Have Poured In From Bandmates and the Rock Community
Since the sad passing of Mick Ralphs, tributes have begun to pour in from fans and fellow stars for the legendary rock star. News of his death has become one of the most trendy stories around the UK, proving just how much influence he commanded in his lifetime.
Simon Kirke, Ralphs’ longtime bandmate and fellow founding member of Bad Company, remembered him as “a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”
Mick Ralphs was widely admired for his distinctive guitar tone and straightforward, emotionally resonant songwriting. His riffs became a hallmark of ’70s rock and were instrumental in defining the sound of two of Britain’s most iconic bands.
Mick Ralphs Is Set For Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Recognition
Mick Ralphs’ death came just when the band, Bad Company had just gotten voted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The band are scheduled to be inducted at the ceremony in November, and so as a member of the band, Mick Ralphs is currently slated to be inducted posthumously into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The soon-to-happen induction, which will take place in November, serves as an honor recognizing his extraordinary contributions to music history. And, need we say that it is an honor that is more than deserved!
Throughout his illustrious career, Mick Ralphs remained committed to crafting music that resonated with the people and drew crowds to him. Fans adored him and his authenticity. It goes without saying that his artistry, both as a solo performer and as a collaborator, has left an enduring legacy in the annals of rock music.
