This classic rock band just can’t get enough of life on the road. Look out for Bad Company, who will be returning to the U.K. for their first tour there in four years. And if you’ve been wondering what Richie Sambora has been up to, now you know.
The “Swan Song” tour will kick off October 15th in Leeds and play out the rest of October before wrapping up at The O2 in London on October 29th. The band and Sambora will hit eight cities in total (see below).
Longtime Bad Company fans will recognize the name “Swan Song” as the label originally launched by Led Zeppelin in 1974. Zep’s manager, Peter Grant, also managed Bad Company, and signed them to the label.
Earlier this year, Best Classic Bands had reported on the ailing health of BadCo’s Mick Ralphs earlier this spring. The Black Crowes Rich Robinson has been subbing in for him on the One Hell of a Night tour that the band is currently co-headlining with Joe Walsh. But Ralphs will be back at it, strapping on his guitar and joining Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke for this U.K. tour.
“Returning to the U.K. with Bad Company where it all began 40 plus years ago is full circle for the band and the fans. It’s always a pleasure to play in the U.K.,” remarked Paul Rodgers.
Related: Bad Company recently released a live two-record set from 1977 and 1979
“So looking forward to be playing in the U.K. for all our great fans – gonna be great!” Mick Ralphs added.
Richie Sambora and his girlfriend, Australian guitarist Orianthi, who perform as RSO, will join them as the openers for every show on the U.K. tour. Sambora left Bon Jovi in 2013 and has since been working on his solo career as well as collaborating as one half of RSO. He recently tweeted that he’s almost done recording an album.
Yo everybody, the great Bob Rock and I in the studio…Almost done… Sounding insane!!! pic.twitter.com/Zyqp74qAHf
— RICHIE SAMBORA (@TheRealSambora) May 31, 2016
And it seems music can be found in the genes of Paul Rodgers’ family. His children, Steve Rodgers and Jasmine Rodgers, will serve as the first act on the tour.
Swan Song U.K. Tour (Tickets are on sale here):
Oct. 15 – Leeds – First Direct Arena
Oct. 17 – Cardiff – Motorpoint Arena
Oct. 19 – Nottingham – Motorpoint Arena
Oct. 21 – Birminham – Genting Arena
Oct. 24 – Manchester – Manchester Arena
Oct. 25 – Glasgow – The SSE Hydro
Oct. 27 – Newcastle – Metro Radio Arena
Oct. 29 – London – The O2
