“I’ve decided to sit this upcoming U.S. tour out,” guitarist Mick Ralphs said in a news release. “The travel required to do these dates is something I’m just not feeling up for at the moment. I’m glad the band found Rich to take my place for this run, I’m sure he’ll be great.”

Robinson co-founded the BLACK CROWES with his older brother Chris in 1984, later co-writing 'She Talks to Angels,' one of the now-split band’s biggest hits. He’s since released four solo albums, with another called Flux slated for June.

Ralphs co-founded BAD COMPANY with Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke and the late Boz Burrell in 1973; Rodgers and Kirke – who’d both earlier been in FREE – will lead BAD COMPANY through these shows with Robinson.

“I’m excited to be joining Bad Company as their special guest on tour this summer,” Robinson said in the same press release. “One of my favorite bands growing up was Free. I’ve been a big fan of Paul Rodgers and his work throughout his career – from Bad Company and beyond – and Simon Kirke is one of my all-time favorite drummers. To be able to play with Paul and Simon is such an honor.”
 

Rodgers and Robinson most recently shared the stage in Seattle last year, when they both appeared to honor Jimmy Page, Rodgers’ former bandmate in the Firm.