Some days ago, Mick Ralphs, the iconic guitarist and songwriter of Mott The Hoople and Bad Company, left our world and now belongs to the Big Heaven’s Band. Myth of Rock, shocked by the sad news of his passing, ran back in time and examined some of the best songs written and co-written by the late Mick Ralphs.
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
- “Can’t Get Enough” – Bad Company (1974)
Mick Ralphs wrote this explosive rocker before Bad Company even formed. Originally intended for Mott the Hoople, it never quite fit—until Paul Rodgers gave it life. As the lead single from Bad Company’s debut, it shot to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a classic rock staple. The riff is pure Ralphs—simple, catchy and powerful. A perfect introduction to his songwriting brilliance.
- “Ready for Love” – Mott the Hoople/Bad Company (1972/1974)
Originally released by Mott the Hoople on “All the Young Dudes”, Ralphs sang this ballad himself. But the song found its definitive version when Bad Company re-recorded it two years later, with Paul Rodgers on vocals. It’s emotionally rich and showcases Ralphs’ melodic instincts and lyrical depth. The contrast between vulnerability and strength makes it one of his finest and most personal compositions.
- “Movin’ On” – Bad Company (1974)
“Movin’ On” is a driving, bluesy rocker about life on the road, penned by Ralphs. Its urgent rhythm and lean guitar work reflect the fast-paced lifestyle of a touring band. It became a concert favorite and remains one of Bad Company’s most underrated singles. Ralphs captures the restlessness of musicianship perfectly—this track moves with purpose, grit and a timeless rock ‘n’ roll pulse.
- “One of the Boys” – Mott the Hoople (1972)
This punchy anthem from “All the Young Dudes” was co-written by Ralphs and captures the raw, rebellious spirit of early Mott. With snarling guitar riffs and defiant lyrics, it feels like a working-class mission statement. It stood out in a sea of glam rock for its sincerity and muscle. Ralphs’ guitar tone is thick and fiery, marking his evolution into a full-fledged songwriting force.
- “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” – Bad Company (1975)
From Bad Company’s “Straight Shooter” album, this Ralphs-penned hit is one of the band’s most aggressive, upbeat rockers. With its instantly recognizable riff and raw vocal from Paul Rodgers, the track reached the Top 40 in the U.S. Ralphs’ lyrics are simple but effective, focusing on emotional frustration with a loud and unapologetic voice. It’s a perfect showcase of his knack for punchy, radio-ready rock.
- “Feel Like Makin’ Love” – Bad Company (1975)
Another standout from “Straight Shooter”, “Feel Like Makin’ Love” burns with classic rock energy. Ralphs wrote this track together with Rodgers, which blends British folk-rock with a ferocious hard rock edge. A major single, it is written in bold letters in the book of classic rock. Ralphs’ guitar playing is both primal and precise—he knew exactly when to hold back and when to strike.
- “Rock and Roll Fantasy” – Bad Company (1979)
Written by Ralphs during a time of creative uncertainty, this track became the lead single from “Desolation Angels”. It’s smoother and more reflective than their earlier work, with synthesizers subtly adding atmosphere. Still, the melody is pure Ralphs: catchy, thoughtful, and radio-friendly. It climbed to No. 13 in the U.S., showing his adaptability. This song is a late-’70s classic that still resonates with dreamers and realists alike.
- “Seagull” – Bad Company (1974)
A haunting acoustic piece that closes Bad Company’s debut album, “Seagull” is an often-overlooked Ralphs gem. Co-written with Rodgers, the song reflects a gentler, more philosophical side of his writing. Its lyrics explore themes of freedom, nature, and isolation, wrapped in serene guitar fingerpicking. Stripped of bombast, “Seagull” shows Ralphs’ depth as a writer—this is rock poetry at its most intimate.
- “Whiskey Woman” – Mott the Hoople (1971)
One of the heavier tracks from Mott’s earlier, grittier period, “Whiskey Woman” was co-written by Ralphs and Ian Hunter. It’s a blues-drenched rocker full of swagger and desperation. The heavy guitar work hints at the future direction Ralphs would take with Bad Company. A fan favorite among early Mott followers, this track proves that even before the glam makeover, Ralphs was writing hard-hitting, soulful songs.
- “Sweet Lil’ Sister” – Bad Company (1979)
Featured on “Desolation Angels”, “Sweet Lil’ Sister” showcases Ralphs’ flair for boogie-infused rock. With a sleazy groove and infectious riff, the track leans into a more Southern rock style while keeping that British edge. It’s cheeky, energetic, and fun—a reminder that Ralphs could write serious ballads and swaggering barroom stompers with equal skill. Though not a chart hit, it highlights his versatility as a rock ‘n’ roll craftsman.
