Bad Company is a British rock supergroup formed in 1973 by former members of Free, Mott the Hoople, and King Crimson. The original lineup included vocalist Paul Rodgers, guitarist Mick Ralphs, drummer Simon Kirke, and bassist Boz Burrell. Known for their powerful rock sound and dynamic performances, Bad Company quickly rose to fame in the 1970s.
Their self-titled debut album, *Bad Company* (1974), was a massive success, featuring hits like “Can’t Get Enough,” “Bad Company,” and “Ready for Love.” The album’s blend of hard rock and blues, combined with Rodgers’ distinctive voice and Ralphs’ guitar work, helped establish the band’s signature style.
Bad Company’s subsequent albums, such as *Straight Shooter* (1975) and *Run with the Pack* (1976), continued their commercial success with tracks like “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” “Shooting Star,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.” The band was known for its solid songwriting, tight musicianship, and ability to craft memorable rock anthems.
Despite lineup changes and breaks over the years, Bad Company has remained a significant force in rock music. Their influence can be seen in numerous bands and their songs continue to be popular on classic rock radio. The original members occasionally reunite for tours, bringing their timeless rock sound to new generations of fans.
1. Rock and Roll Fantasy
“Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1979 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, *Desolation Angels*. Written by vocalist Paul Rodgers, the track is one of the band’s most enduring and popular songs.
The song features a powerful and catchy melody, driven by Mick Ralphs’ distinctive guitar riff and Simon Kirke’s steady drumming. Paul Rodgers’ vocal performance adds a layer of intensity and passion, perfectly capturing the essence of the rock and roll lifestyle. The lyrics describe the excitement and allure of rock and roll, blending a sense of fantasy with the realities of life as a musician.
“Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy” became a commercial success, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its anthemic quality and relatable lyrics have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite among Bad Company fans.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke the spirit of rock and roll, celebrating both its highs and lows. “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy” remains a testament to Bad Company’s influence in the rock genre and their knack for creating timeless music that resonates with listeners.
2. Movin’ On
“Movin’ On” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1974 as part of their debut self-titled album, *Bad Company*. Written by band members Mick Ralphs and Paul Rodgers, the song features a driving rock rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and Rodgers’ distinctive, soulful vocals. The lyrics speak to themes of freedom and the restless spirit of life on the road, reflecting the band’s rock-and-roll ethos. “Movin’ On” showcases Bad Company’s blend of hard rock and blues influences, contributing to the album’s critical and commercial success. The song remains a staple in classic rock playlists and a favorite among fans for its energetic and timeless sound.
3. Good Lovin’ Gone Bad
“Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1975 as the lead single from their second studio album, *Straight Shooter*. Written by guitarist Mick Ralphs, the track epitomizes the band’s hard rock style with its gritty guitar riffs, dynamic rhythm, and Paul Rodgers’ powerful vocals. The lyrics tell a story of romantic disillusionment and heartbreak, capturing the intensity of a relationship turned sour. The song achieved commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains a classic rock favorite. “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” exemplifies Bad Company’s ability to deliver raw, emotive rock music that resonates with listeners.
4. Shooting Star
“Shooting Star” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1975 on their second studio album, *Straight Shooter*. Written by lead vocalist Paul Rodgers, the track tells a poignant story of a young musician’s rise and tragic fall, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fame and excess.
The song begins with a gentle acoustic guitar and gradually builds into a powerful rock ballad. Rodgers’ emotive vocals and Mick Ralphs’ compelling guitar work drive the narrative, which follows the life of “Johnny,” a fictional character who achieves rock star status only to succumb to the pitfalls of the rock and roll lifestyle.
“Shooting Star” features memorable lyrics and a strong melodic structure, making it one of Bad Company’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its storytelling quality and emotional depth resonate with listeners, highlighting themes of ambition, success, and loss.
Although not released as a single, “Shooting Star” has become a staple of Bad Company’s live performances and classic rock radio playlists. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to capture the allure and hazards of the rock and roll dream, cementing its place as a classic in the band’s catalog and in rock music history.
5. Bad Company
“Bad Company” is a song by the English hard rock band Bad Company, released in 1974 as part of their debut self-titled album, *Bad Company*. The track was written by band members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. Known for its haunting melody, powerful vocals by Rodgers, and evocative lyrics, the song has become one of the band’s signature tracks. It features a slow, deliberate rhythm and a memorable chorus, capturing a sense of outlaw spirit and rugged individualism. The song’s themes of freedom, rebellion, and self-determination resonate deeply with fans, making it a staple of classic rock radio and live performances. “Bad Company” helped establish the band as a major force in the rock music scene of the 1970s.
6. Can’t Get Enough
“Can’t Get Enough” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1974 as the lead single from their self-titled debut album, *Bad Company*. Written by guitarist Mick Ralphs, the track features a catchy, hard rock riff and showcases Paul Rodgers’ powerful, bluesy vocals. The lyrics express a fervent, insatiable desire for love and excitement. With its energetic rhythm and memorable chorus, “Can’t Get Enough” became a major hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and establishing Bad Company as one of the premier rock bands of the 1970s. The song remains a classic rock staple, celebrated for its timeless appeal and infectious energy.
7. Feel Like Making Love
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1975 as a single from their album *Straight Shooter*. Written by Paul Rodgers and Mick Ralphs, the track is one of the band’s most iconic songs and showcases their signature blend of rock and blues.
The song features a smooth, sensual melody and heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of romance and intimacy. Rodgers’ emotive vocal delivery is complemented by Mick Ralphs’ expressive guitar work, creating a rich and atmospheric sound. The arrangement includes a prominent guitar solo and a memorable chorus, which has become a hallmark of the band’s style.
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success helped solidify Bad Company’s reputation as one of the leading rock bands of the 1970s.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey deep emotion and create a memorable, romantic atmosphere. It remains a classic rock staple and continues to be celebrated as one of Bad Company’s most enduring and popular tracks.
8. Run With The Pack
“Run with the Pack” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1976 as the title track from their fourth studio album, *Run with the Pack*. Written by Paul Rodgers and Mick Ralphs, the song exemplifies the band’s signature rock sound and thematic focus on freedom and camaraderie.
The track features a driving rhythm, catchy melody, and powerful guitar riffs. Paul Rodgers’ commanding vocals deliver lyrics that celebrate the spirit of adventure and the bond among friends. The song’s energetic feel and anthemic chorus capture the essence of the rock and roll lifestyle, resonating with themes of unity and rebellion.
“Run with the Pack” was well-received by fans and critics alike, contributing to the album’s success. The album itself was a commercial hit, solidifying Bad Company’s status as a leading rock band of the 1970s.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its powerful rock instrumentation and its celebration of the adventurous spirit, making it a staple of Bad Company’s live performances and classic rock radio.
9. Gone, Gone, Gone
“Gone, Gone, Gone” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1979 as part of their fifth studio album, *Desolation Angels*. Written by bassist Boz Burrell, the track features a lively rock rhythm with a prominent bassline and catchy guitar riffs. Paul Rodgers’ distinctive vocals deliver lyrics about the end of a turbulent relationship, capturing a mix of resignation and liberation. The upbeat tempo and energetic performance contrast with the song’s themes of heartache and moving on. “Gone, Gone, Gone” highlights the band’s ability to blend rock and blues influences, maintaining their signature sound while exploring new musical territories.
10. Burnin’ Sky
“Burnin’ Sky” is a song by Bad Company, released in 1977 as the title track from their fifth studio album, *Burnin’ Sky*. Written by Paul Rodgers and Mick Ralphs, the song showcases the band’s characteristic rock sound with a blend of blues and hard rock influences.
The track features a powerful, mid-tempo groove, driven by Mick Ralphs’ gritty guitar riffs and Paul Rodgers’ soulful vocals. The lyrics reflect themes of longing and intensity, with a melody that builds to a memorable chorus. The song’s arrangement includes a mix of electric and acoustic elements, adding to its dynamic and atmospheric quality.
“Burnin’ Sky” received positive reviews from critics and fans, though it wasn’t as commercially successful as some of the band’s earlier hits. The album *Burnin’ Sky* itself achieved moderate success and is notable for its exploration of more diverse musical styles.
The song remains a fan favorite and a classic example of Bad Company’s ability to combine rock with emotional depth, showcasing their talent for crafting compelling and memorable music.