Rockonteurs with Gary Kemp and Guy Pratt S9E22: A tribute to Mick Ralphs with Joe Elliott
Jun 28, 2025
Joe Elliott, lead singer of Def Leppard and self-proclaimed musical encyclopedia, joins the conversation to honor the late Mick Ralphs, guitarist of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople. He shares heartfelt anecdotes about Ralphs’ impact on rock music, highlighting his unique guitar work and warm personality. The duo humorously discusses the life of touring musicians, touching on everything from luggage mishaps to the emotional connections we have with iconic songs. It's a nostalgic tribute that celebrates the legacy of rock legends.
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Sweaty 94-Degree Gig Challenge
- Joe Elliott performed in a grueling 94-degree humid concert where his fingers wrinkled and became difficult to play.
- Despite discomfort, the band laughed and pushed through the challenging concert conditions.
Brian Wilson's Lasting Influence
- Brian Wilson's music was deeply sophisticated with complex arrangements and emotional depth beneath catchy tunes.
- His work rivaled and influenced the Beatles, creating a rich, morphic creative resonance in rock history.
Joe's Early Mott the Hoople Discovery
- Joe Elliott discovered Mott the Hoople as a kid through compilation albums and was captivated by Mick Ralphs' guitar and vocals.
- Hearing "All the Young Dudes" on the radio made him proud, sharing his excitement with schoolmates.