Mick Ralphs, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died at 81. His death was announced on Bad Company’s official Facebook page, though no cause or date was given.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mick Ralphs,” the band wrote. Ralphs co-founded Bad Company in 1973 after leaving Mott the Hoople, teaming up with Paul Rodgers of Free, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. With help from Led Zeppelin manager Peter Grant, they became the first band signed to Zeppelin’s Swan Song label and quickly rose to fame.

Their first three albums – Bad Company (1974), Straight Shooter (1975), and Run with the Pack (1976) – all hit the top five in both the U.K. and U.S., featuring rock radio staples like “Bad Company,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Shooting Star,” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” the last of which Ralphs helped shape with his signature guitar riff.

Before forming Bad Company, Ralphs helped create Mott the Hoople in 1966. Though they initially struggled commercially, they gained momentum with David Bowie’s help, notably with the hit “All the Young Dudes.”

Ralphs suffered a debilitating stroke after his final performance with Bad Company in 2016 at London’s O2 Arena and remained bedridden until his passing. He was recently selected as part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2025 induction class.

Rodgers paid tribute: “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground… He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist.” Kirke added, “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist.”

Ralphs is survived by his partner Susie Chavasse, two children, three stepchildren, and millions of fans worldwide.