Iconic Rock Musician, 81, Passes Away Just Months Before Rock Hall Honors

2025-06-24

Bad Company

An iconic guitarist in the classic rock world has die just months before he was set to get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. – Author: Charles Ken, Bad Company, “Burnin’ Sky” album cover on Island Records.

For many musicians, getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a pipe dream that never comes to fruition. Musicians can work their whole lives to try to get that honor and always fall short. Even some of the biggest names in rock music have never been inducted into the Rock Hall, including Alice in Chains, Asia, Badfinger and the Black Crowes, to name just a few.

Now, one beloved rock musician has passed away just a few months after getting the news that he was going to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 8, so while he got the good news of getting inducted, he sadly passed away before officially joining the Rock Hall.

A Famed Guitarist Passes Away

Guitarist Mick Ralphs, the famed founding member of both Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81, according to a statement from his publicist.

“Mick Ralphs, the influential guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has passed away at the age of 81,” the statement reads. “He is survived by the love of his life, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children and his beloved bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. He also leaves behind millions of devoted fans and friends across the world.”

Bad Company vocalist Paul Rodgers also extended his condolences, stating, “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.”

Drummer Simon Kirke continued, stating, “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”

Mick Ralphs Was Already Honored With His Other Band, Mott the Hopple

Just a few months ago, Bad Company was announced as a 2025 inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and as previously mentioned, the ceremony is scheduled for this fall. Mott the Hoople was inducted in 2019, so at least Ralphs was honored with that group, because he co-founded the UK glam-rock band. Ralphs appears on Mott the Hoople’s first six albums.

Bad Company, of course, will still be honored at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on November 8. For those who can’t attend the Rock Hall induction, it will stream live on Disney+. The show will also be available on Hulu after its premiere and get a special broadcast airing on ABC at a later date. Other artists getting inducted this year include Soundgarden, the White Stripes, OutKast, Cyndi Lauper, Joe Cocker, Bad Company, and Chubby Checker.

Charles Ken
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Posted by Charles Ken | Music, Rock, Rock News