Guitarist, singer and songwriter Mick Ralphs – founding member of each Mott The Hoople and Unhealthy Firm – has died aged 81 following a protracted sickness.
He had been unable to carry out since struggling a stroke in November 2016, not lengthy after a Unhealthy Firm reunion tour culminated in a triumphant headline present at London’s 02 Area.
Mick Ralphs co-founded Mott The Hoople in 1969, writing songs akin to “One Of The Boys” and “Sucker”, usually in collaboration with frontman Ian Hunter.
Ralphs left the band following 1973’s Mott to kind supergroup Unhealthy Firm with former Free members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. He wrote or co-wrote most of their massive hits, together with “Good Lovin’ Gone Unhealthy” and US Prime 10 single “Really feel Like Makin’ Love”.
Ralphs additionally wrote “Flying Hour” with George Harrison, toured with David Gilmour and launched three solo albums, earlier than taking part in varied Mott The Hoople and Unhealthy Firm reunions.
“Our Mick has handed, my coronary heart simply hit the bottom,” wrote Paul Rodgers in tribute. “He has left us with distinctive songs and recollections. He was my pal, my songwriting accomplice, an incredible and versatile guitarist who had the best sense of humour. Our final dialog a number of days in the past we shared fun however it received’t be our final. There are lots of recollections of Mick that can create laughter. Condolences to everybody who beloved him. I’ll see you in heaven.”
