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Simon Kirke, the longtime bandmate of late Bad Company guitarist Mick Ralphs, has shared details about the difficult final years of the musician who passed away on June 23 at age 81. In a recent interview with Q104.3, Kirke opened up about how Ralph’s health declined significantly after suffering a stroke in 2016.
According to People, the stroke severely impacted Ralph’s ability to perform, affecting the entire left side of his body and making it impossible for him to play guitar. Kirke, who is 75 years old, mentioned that Ralphs had “no quality of life” in his final years.
During their last interaction, which happened over a phone call on Ralph’s birthday in late March, the guitarist was unable to speak. Kirke recalled the emotional moment, saying, “He couldn’t talk, but I just told him I loved him. You can’t really say anything more than that.”
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction brings a final moment of humor
Despite the challenging circumstances, Ralph maintained his sense of humor until the end, showing the resilience that characterized many musicians, including other rock pioneers who faced difficult final years. When informed about Bad Company’s upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ralphs reportedly mumbled to his wife, asking if the honor meant they would get free hot dogs.
Kirke, who performed with Ralphs for more than four decades, remembered him not only as a talented musician but also as one of the funniest people he had ever known. He praised Ralph’s abilities as both a lead and rhythm guitarist, as well as his songwriting skills, remembering him among the many talented musicians whose contributions shaped rock history.
The guitarist’s final performance took place at London’s O2 Arena with Bad Company in 2016. Shortly after this show, he suffered a stroke that left him bedridden until his death, according to the statement released by his representative.
Fellow bandmate Paul Rodgers shared his grief in a statement, highlighting Ralph’s exceptional contributions to music and their close friendship. Rodgers mentioned having a final conversation with Ralphs just days before his passing, during which they shared one last laugh together.
Published: Jul 8, 2025 04:51 pm