Mick Ralphs, the influential guitarist, songwriter and co-founder of the iconic rock bands Bad Company and Mott The Hoople, has died. He was 81.

In recent years, Ralphs had been in a nursing home after suffering from a stroke in 2016 while on tour with Bad Company in the United Kingdom, according to Rolling Stone. Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in November.

“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,” Paul Rodgers, lead singer for Bad Company, wrote in a statement shared on Facebook. “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.”

Ralphs left the English rock band, Mott the Hoople, after he met Rodgers in 1971 and shared mutual songs with the artist while having an “inspired” jam session, according to the statement. Rodgers and Ralphs then formed the band, Bad Company, adding former King Crimson bassist and vocalist Boz Burrell and drummer Simon Kirke.

Bad Company’s success “was meteoric.” They produced classic hits such as “Can’t Get Enough” and “Movin’ On,” in addition to “electrifying rock anthems” like “Ready for Love,” “Rock Steady,” and the title track, “Bad Company.”

Bad Company’s statement concludes by saying, “Mick Ralphs leaves behind a powerful musical legacy that will continue to inspire generations.”