Bad Company Guitarist Mick Ralphs Dead at 81: ‘He Left Us with Exceptional Songs and Memories’

Mick Ralphs, the founding lead guitarist of Bad Company, has died. He was 81.

His death was announced on Monday, June 23. Surviving Bad Company bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke paid tribute to Ralphs. A cause of death was not shared.

“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 humour,” Rodgers, 75, said in a statement.

“Our last conversation a few days ago we shared a laugh but it won’t be our last. 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.”

“He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist,” Kirke, 75, said. “We will miss him deeply.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Ralphs was born in 1944 in Herefordshire, England, and began playing music as a teenager. He performed in the band Doc Thomas Group in the 1960s.

Before joining Bad Company, Ralphs was a founding member of Mott the Hoople. He appeared on six of their albums, including All the Young Dudes, which was produced by David Bowie.

Rodgers met Ralphs in 1971. After a jam session, Ralphs left Mott the Hoople and formed Bad Company with Rodgers, Kirke and King Crimson bassist/vocalist Boz Burrell.

The group signed with Led Zeppelin’s record label Swan Song thanks to Zeppelin’s manager, Peter Grant.

During Ralphs’ tenure with Bad Company, the group released hit songs “Can’t Get Enough,” “Movin’ On,” “Ready for Love,” “Silver, Blue and Gold,” “Shooting Star” and “Rock Steady.” Their 1974 self-titled debut album was their only No. 1 album on the Billboard 200.

Although the band’s last record was released in 1995, they reunited often for performances.

Ralphs’ final performance took place in 2016 when he played at the O2 Arena in London. He suffered a debilitating stroke days later and has remained bedridden since the incident until his death.

Bad Company is one of seven performers who will be inducted into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame in November.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

“I am elated, it feels great…fabulous to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,” Ralphs said about the induction, per an Instagram post.

Ralph is survived by his partner, Susie Chavasse, his two children, three step-children and his beloved bandmates.