Guitarist Chris Hager, a key figure in the early Los Angeles rock scene and a founding member of Mickey Ratt alongside Stephen Pearcy—the band that would evolve into the glam metal giant Ratt—has passed away at the age of 67. His death was reported today, on May 19, 2025, prompting heartfelt tributes from his former bandmates and friends.
Stephen Pearcy, longtime frontman of Ratt, shared an emotional statement on social media mourning the loss of his “dear friend.”
“I am very saddened to hear about the passing of our dear friend, guitarist and musician Christopher (Chris) Hager today,” Pearcy wrote. He reminisced about their formative years: “Chris and I started Mickey Ratt together in San Diego 1977 and in moving to L.A. really created the band Ratt in 1981. He was an amazing person, a great guitarist, songwriter and so committed to being just that.”
Pearcy also highlighted Hager‘s continued musical endeavors after his initial stint with the band. “Chris went on to create projects over the years with Rough Cutt, Woop and the Count and Pearcy/Hager. We were actually working on new songs recently,” he revealed, adding a poignant note to their long history. Pearcy concluded, “I’m at a loss my friend. God bless you brother. As of this time the family would respect privacy.”
Erik Ferentinos, the guitarist in Pearcy‘s solo band, also posted a message of condolence: “RIP Chris Hager. This is very sad news. I’ve known Chris for over 30 years! From recording my first band’s demos in the late 80’s at Pearcy‘s to playing in the solo band. My condolences to all his friends and family!”
Chris Hager met Stephen Pearcy in 1976, and together they formed Mickey Ratt a year later. Hager was part of the band during its crucial early development before he eventually left in 1981. He then joined another notable L.A. band, Rough Cutt, stepping in as the replacement for guitarist Jake E. Lee.
Chris Hager‘s contributions during the nascent stages of what would become Ratt played a significant role in shaping the sound of the early Sunset Strip metal scene.
