Simon Kirke, singer and drummer for Bad Company, opened up about the loss of his longtime bandmate Mick Ralphs following the English rock supergroup’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Ralphs, Bad Company’s founding lead guitarist, passed away in June at the age of 81, just months after the Hall of Fame announced the band’s induction.

Kirke, 76, reflected on the bittersweet emotions of celebrating the band’s recognition without Ralphs present at the Los Angeles ceremony on November 8, 2025.

Remembering Mick Ralphs: A Celebration of Life and Music

“When death takes a friend, it never really dies. It never really fades away,” Kirke told the press. “And I’m just glad that Mick got to hear that we were inducted before he passed away. I believe it was two weeks after he got the news, and I believe Paul called him and said, ‘Hey mate, we got in, we made it.’”

Kirke shared a poignant anecdote about Ralphs’ humor even near the end of his life:

“‘Does that mean we get free hot dogs?’ I guess it was the morphine talking, but he went out with a smile. I miss him very much. And it was hard hauling it together out there. But I hope I did him proud.”

Ralphs’ death was officially announced on June 23, 2025, with no cause of death disclosed. He is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, two children, three stepchildren, and his surviving bandmates.

Tributes from Bandmates

Following Ralphs’ passing, fellow Bad Company member Paul Rodgers paid tribute to his friend and collaborator:

“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. 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.”

Kirke also reflected on Ralphs’ talent and character:

“He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.”

Before his death, Ralphs shared his excitement on social media about the Hall of Fame honor:

“I am elated, it feels great… fabulous to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.”

Bad Company: A Rock Supergroup Legacy

Formed in 1973, Bad Company’s original lineup included Paul Rodgers on vocals, Simon Kirke on drums, Mick Ralphs on lead guitar, and Boz Burrell on bass and backing vocals. The band quickly gained a reputation as a supergroup due to the members’ previous work—Ralphs with Mott the Hoople, Kirke and Rodgers with Free, and Burrell with Crimson King.

Bad Company’s catalog of classic rock hits, including “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” “Bad Company,” and “Shooting Star,” continues to influence generations of musicians and fans worldwide.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

The 40th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on November 8, 2025, and was streamed live on Disney+. A special highlighting the 2025 inductees is scheduled to air on ABC on January 1, 2026, with availability on Hulu the following day.

Kirke’s heartfelt words and the band’s Hall of Fame honor serve as a lasting tribute to Mick Ralphs’ legacy, ensuring his music and memory live on for fans around the world.