Legendary Rocker Dead at 81 as Bandmate Cries 'My Heart Just Hit the Ground' in Devastating Statement — 'I Will See You In Heaven'
Mick Ralphs has died aged 81.
June 23 2025, Published 6:22 p.m. ET
British rocker Mick Ralphs, who co-founded the 1970s band Bad Company, has passed away aged 81, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
Bad Company's official website confirmed his death in a statement, writing: "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."
Ralph 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."
A cause of death has not been released at this time.
Ralphs is survived by his wife, Susie Chavass, two children and three step-children.
A touching tribute from his bandmate, Paul Rodgers, was included in the statement.
Rodgers wrote: "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."
Bandmate Paul Rodgers wrote that he would see Ralphs 'in heaven.'
Fellow bandmate and drummer Simon Kirke added: "He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply."
The band's statement continued: "In a fitting tribute to the band's enduring influence, Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year in 2025.
"Ralphs gave his final performance with Bad Company on October 29, 2016, at London's O2 Arena. Just days later, he suffered a debilitating stroke and remained bedridden until his passing.
"Mick Ralphs leaves behind a powerful musical legacy that will continue to inspire generations."
Days after his final performance with Bad Company in 2016, Ralphs suffered a stroke that left him bedridden.
Bad Company was formed following a "jam session" between Rodgers and Ralph, who was playing with Mott The Hoople at the time.
The group went on to be the first band signed with Led Zeppelin's label, Swan Song.
In 1974 the band's self-titled album went five-times platinum with hits including Can't Get Enough, Movin' On and Bad Company.
Their self-titled album remains the band's best U.S. selling record, with over 5 million copies sold.
Ralphs lent his talents to a dozen Bad Company records from 1974 to 1996.
Ralphs cause of death has not been released at this time.
He also saw success with his former group, Mott the Hoople, which he co-founded.
Mott was struggling to gain popularity on the music charts when David Bowie presented them with the track All the Young Dudes.
Bowie produced the track and also sang backup vocals. The track skyrocketed to the top of U.K. charts upon its release in 1972 and also made its way into the U.S. Top 40.
Never Miss an
Daily updates from the heart of Hollywood, right to your inbox
By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Ralphs was born on March 31, 1944, in Hereford, U.K.
In addition to his work with Bad Company and Mott, Ralphs also produced three solo albums.
Following his 2016 stroke, Ralphs was left bedridden and was living at a nursing home prior to his death.
