Very sad news. He’d been ill for quite a while and I know that Bad Company’s drummer Simon Kirke was with him a few weeks ago.
He was the first lead guitarist I ever saw, in November 1971 when Mott the Hoople played Guildford Civic Hall. 18 months later, he was back, this time in Bad Company, at one of their first few gigs.
He was a lovely, lyrical player and is also the performer of my favourite ever solo; on Mott’s version of Sweet Jane.
RIP Mick and thanks for all the gigs and the great music.
Oh that’s sad. Terrific player and I think very underrated. Excellent arranger and songwriter too. Mott’s early dip into Laurel Canyon was very much good project and whilst it didn’t go anywhere it’s a very musical diversion and a world award from Bad Company, excellent as they were.
Sorry for the auto correct gibberish there… You get the drift…
Been there. Done that. Got the see-first
I love his understated playing. Bad Co were incredibly tight and soulful, and played as a unit. He was great!
I think the tribute from Paul Rodgers, his long time friend & bandmate, is very good..
“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 humour. 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.” Love Paul
Loved that classic era with Mott – the Dudes riff, the little guitar breaks in Memphis and as @Twang mentions they did some very credible west coast style Americana in particular the album Wildlife.
Bad Company had a few great songs but overall I thought they were a poor man’s Free.
First 2 Bad Co albums pretty good, especially the debut. The others not so much other than the odd song here and there.
Yes they went off a cliff quality wise. Too much time on the road and not enough writing decent songs. I never saw them live though – wish I had.
The eponymous song was their best.
Always had a soft spot for this one, covered here by Def Leppard – on a side note, if I recall correctly the first album by Joe Elliott’s side project The Down n Outz was comprised solely of Mott covers…
If you haven’t seen, the latest Rockenteurs podcast has Joe Elliott on talking about Mick Ralphs. well worth a listen…..