Mick Ralphs
Michael Geoffrey Ralphs (31 March 1944 – 23 June 2025) was an English guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter.
Born in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, he later passed away in Henley-on-Thames, England, at age 81.
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Michael Geoffrey Ralphs was born on 31 March 1944 in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire, England.
He began playing guitar in his teens, influenced by blues and early rock ’n’ roll.
He entered the professional music scene in the mid-1960s with groups like the Doc Thomas Group and later Silence, which evolved into Mott the Hoople by 1969.
Mott the Hoople (1969–1973)
As a founding member, Ralphs played lead guitar and contributed key songwriting, penning tracks such as “Rock and Roll Queen” and “Ready for Love.”
He featured on six of the band’s studio albums and helped shape their sound.
Bad Company (1973–1982, reunions through 2016)
In 1973, Ralphs co-founded Bad Company with Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, and Boz Burrell.
The band quickly became a massive success.
Their 1974 debut album topped the U.S. charts, featuring Ralphs’ signature track “Can’t Get Enough”, famously using open-C tuning.
His songwriting also produced hits like “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad”, “Feel Like Makin’ Love”, “Ready for Love”, and “Bad Company”.
Bad Company’s blend of hard-rock riffs, bluesy sensibility, and melodic strength cemented their ‘70s legacy.
Solo & Collaborations
Ralphs released solo albums—Take This (1984), It’s All Good (2001), and That’s Life (2003)—illustrating his blues-rock roots.
He also toured with legends like David Gilmour and co-wrote a song with George Harrison, reflecting his respected status among peers.
Later Years & Legacy
After a stroke in 2016, Ralphs spent his final years in care and passed away on 23 June 2025 at age 81.
His legacy lives on through his heartfelt, song-serving guitar work and songwriting that defined classic rock.
In recognition of his contribution, Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2025.