Copyright Mechanicsburg Patriot News
Bad Company fans were no doubt excited by the possibility that lead singer Paul Rodgers would reunite with his bandmates for a performance during the band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Sadly, that promised on-stage reunion is not to be. In a statement posted to social media, Rodgers said that his health will keep him from performing at the induction ceremony. “My hope was to be at the Rock & Rock Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and to perform for the fans, but at this time I have to prioritize my health,” Rodgers said on the ban’s official X account. “I have no problem singing, it’s the stress of everything else. Thanks for understanding.” Rodgers, 75, did not specify what health problems he was dealing with, but the singer has had 11 minor strokes and two major strokes over the past decade. He hasn’t performed with the group since 2019. Initially, Rodgers was optimistic about the chances of a Bad Company reunion. “Well, we may well. We’ll see how we go,” he said during a recent interview with Rolling Stone. “Well, they want us to, and I may. I haven’t decided what songs to sing at this point in time. But it could be “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy’.” Drummer Simon Kirke also said in an interview that he and Rodgers would play at least two songs during the ceremony. “I think the secret is out that we will perform,” Kirke said. “I’m not at liberty to say which songs. I mean, quite honestly, I don’t give a [expletive]. We’re gonna play, and whatever Paul chooses is fine by me.” Rodgers and Kirke are the the only remaining members of Bad Company still alive. Guitarist Mick Ralphs died earlier this year and bassist Boz Burrell died in 2006. The group is known for such classic rock staples as “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” “Rock n’ Roll Fantasy,” and “Can’t Get Enough.” The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at 8 p.m. Nov. 8 and will stream live on Disney+.
