Though guitarist Mick Ralphs passed away in June, Bad Company hasn’t gone away – anthems from the original lineup with him, vocalist/guitarist Paul Rodgers, bassist Boz Burrell, and drummer Simon Kirke endure on FM radio. In fact, the band’s profile has risen with its induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and this first-ever tribute album showcasing its widespread influence on veteran and newer artists.
Singer/songwriter Hardy’s “Ready for Love” has a droning, modern guitar crunch, while the Struts’ “Rock ’n’ Roll Fantasy” has the original’s feisty groove with distorted guitars. “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” from Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & the Conspirators, finds the Guns N’ Roses axeslinger taking soulful solos. Black Stone Cherry’s “Burnin’ Sky” rumbles with authority.
The most-reverent versions are Blackberry Smoke and Rodgers collaborating for “Run with the Pack,” along with Dirty Honey’s “Rock Steady.” Surprises include Charley Crockett’s ghostly country-rock take on “Bad Company,” and Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott and Phil Collen – with Rodgers and Kirke – performing “Seagull.” Another is the Pretty Reckless impressively handling Free’s “All Right Now.” The BadCo faithful will love it all. – Bret Adams
This article originally appeared in VG’s December 2025 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.