Guitarist Mick Ralphs, the legendary founding member of each Unhealthy Firm and Mott the Hoople, has died at age 81, in line with a press release from his publicist.
“Mick Ralphs, the influential guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the long-lasting rock bands Unhealthy Firm and Mott the Hoople, has handed away on the age of 81,” reads the assertion. “He’s survived by the love of his life, Susie Chavasse, his two kids, three step-children and his beloved bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. He additionally leaves behind thousands and thousands of devoted followers and buddies internationally.”
Unhealthy Firm singer Paul Rodgers said, “Our Mick has handed, my coronary heart simply hit the bottom. He has left us with distinctive songs and recollections. He was my buddy, my songwriting accomplice, an incredible and versatile guitarist who had the best humorousness. Our final dialog a number of days in the past we shared fun but it surely received’t be our final. There are various recollections of Mick that may create laughter. Condolences to everybody who cherished him particularly his one real love, Susie. I’ll see you in heaven.”
Drummer Simon Kirke added, “He was a pricey buddy, a beautiful songwriter, and an distinctive guitarist. We’ll miss him deeply.”
Ralphs co-founded the UK glam-rock band Mott the Hoople, initially underneath the identify the Doc Thomas Group, in 1969. As a basic member alongside singer-guitarist Ian Hunter and others, Ralphs appeared on Mott the Hoople’s first six albums, with their signature music being the David Bowie-penned “All of the Younger Dudes.”
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In 1973, Ralphs exited Mott the Hoople to kind Unhealthy Firm with Rodgers, Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. The band launched a string of albums within the ’70s, yielding such radio hits as “Can’t Get Sufficient,” “Really feel Like Makin’ Love,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.” After breaking apart in 1982, Unhealthy Firm re-formed in 1986 and skilled a profession revival within the early ’90s with hits like “Holy Water” and “If You Wanted Any person.”
Ralphs exited Unhealthy Firm in 2016 after struggling a stroke, resulting in paralysis on the left facet of his physique. The band continued on for one more three years till calling it a day in 2019.
Unhealthy Firm had been lately introduced as a 2025 inductee into the Rock & Roll Corridor of Fame, with a ceremony set to happen this fall, whereas Mott the Hoople had been inducted in 2019.
Our condolences exit to Mick Ralphs’ household, buddies, and bandmates throughout this tough time. Revisit a few his greatest hits beneath.