Rock Band Free Plays Final Show in 1973

The iconic group behind "All Right Now" disbands after their last concert in West Palm Beach.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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On February 17, 1973, the British rock band Free played their final show ever in West Palm Beach, Florida. Formed in London in 1968, Free was known for their hit song "All Right Now" and consisted of members Paul Rodgers, Paul Kossoff, Andy Fraser, and Simon Kirke. After founding member Fraser left the band in 1972, Free continued on with a replacement guitarist for their 1973 tour supporting their sixth and final studio album, Heartbreaker. Following the breakup, Rodgers and Kirke went on to form the successful group Bad Company.

Why it matters

Free was one of the most influential rock bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for their blues-infused sound and the enduring popularity of "All Right Now." Their breakup marked the end of an era for classic rock, as the band members went on to find success in other projects.

The details

Free formed in London in 1968 and consisted of Paul Rodgers on vocals, Paul Kossoff on guitar, Andy Fraser on bass, and Simon Kirke on drums. They released six studio albums, with "All Right Now" becoming their biggest hit, reaching the top 5 in the US. In 1972, Fraser left the band, and for their final 1973 tour supporting Heartbreaker, Free brought in a replacement guitarist. Their last show was on February 17, 1973 in West Palm Beach, Florida, marking the end of the band.

  • Free formed in London in 1968.
  • Andy Fraser left the band in 1972.
  • Free's final tour supporting Heartbreaker took place in 1973.
  • Free played their final show on February 17, 1973 in West Palm Beach, Florida.

The players

Paul Rodgers

The lead vocalist of Free, who later co-founded the band Bad Company.

Paul Kossoff

The guitarist for Free.

Andy Fraser

The bassist for Free, who left the band in 1972.

Simon Kirke

The drummer for Free, who later co-founded Bad Company with Paul Rodgers.

Bad Company

The successful rock band formed by Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke after the breakup of Free.

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What’s next

The members of Free went on to find success in other projects, with Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke forming the band Bad Company, which was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2025.

The takeaway

The breakup of Free marked the end of an era for classic rock, as the band's members went on to find continued success in the music industry, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential rock groups of their time.