Mick Ralphs, the singer, songwriter, guitarist and founding member of the classic British rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died.

Guitarist and songwriter Mick Ralphs, best known for his time with Mott The Hoople, has died at the age of 81, according to the band's official website. A statement said: "Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

Mick Ralphs, co-founder of rock band Bad Company, has died at 81, a few months before he was scheduled to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame