It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mike Ratledge, a legendary keyboardist and one of the founding members of the iconic band Soft Machine. He died at the age of 81. This news was shared by his longtime friend and fellow bandmate, John Etheridge, who currently plays guitar for Soft Machine, through a heartfelt post on Facebook.

Etheridge expressed his grief, stating, “Incredibly sad news that my great friend and Soft Machine legend passed away two hours ago after a brief illness.” He went on to describe Ratledge as the ?backbone? of Soft Machine during its formative years, highlighting his exceptional talents as a composer and keyboardist. Etheridge remembered him as a true renaissance man, full of talent, culture, and charm, and cherished the decades of friendship they shared. He concluded with a poignant note about Ratledge’s family and girlfriend, Elena, who were by his side during his final moments.

Exploring the Remarkable Career of Mike Ratledge

Mike Ratledge was born in Maidstone, Kent, in 1943, and his early education was steeped in classical music. As he grew, he was introduced to the world of jazz through friends, leading him to perform in a band known as the Daevid Allen Trio. Ratledge later attended University College, where he earned an impressive degree in both psychology and philosophy, showcasing his diverse interests and intellect.

Shortly after completing his education, Ratledge was invited by friends to join their new musical endeavor, Soft Machine. The original lineup included notable musicians such as Robert Wyatt, Daevid Allen, Larry Nowlin, and Kevin Ayers. Throughout the years, the band underwent several lineup changes, yet Ratledge remained a constant presence until 1976. During his time with Soft Machine, he contributed to nine albums and shared the stage with legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix and future Police guitarist Andy Summers. Additionally, he lent his talents to other musicians, notably on Syd Barrett’s 1970 album, The Madcap Laughs.

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Following his tenure with Soft Machine, Ratledge expanded his musical horizons by collaborating with renowned artists such as Mike Oldfield. He also ventured into composing music for various mediums, including film, television, and theater, showcasing his versatility and creativity in the music industry.

Listen to Soft Machine’s ‘Save Yourself’