Rock Band Free Plays Final Show on This Day in 1973

The iconic group behind "All Right Now" disbanded after their 1973 tour.

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 made up of Paul Rodgers, Paul Kossoff, Andy Fraser, and Simon Kirke. Their biggest hit was the classic song "All Right Now," which was a top-5 hit in the U.S. After the band broke up, 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 blend of blues, rock, and soul. Their breakup marked the end of an era for the band and its members, who all went on to have successful solo and collaborative careers after the group dissolved.

The details

The band's final show took place on February 17, 1973 in West Palm Beach, Florida. This was part of the band's tour supporting their sixth and final studio album, "Heartbreaker." Founding member Andy Fraser had left the band in 1972, and Paul Kossoff was replaced for the 1973 tour.

  • Free formed in London in 1968.
  • The band's biggest hit, "All Right Now," was a top-5 hit in the U.S.
  • Andy Fraser left the band in 1972.
  • Free played their final show on February 17, 1973 in West Palm Beach, Florida.
  • After the breakup, Rodgers and Kirke went on to form Bad Company in 1973.

The players

Paul Rodgers

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

Paul Kossoff

The lead guitarist of Free, who was replaced for the band's final tour in 1973.

Andy Fraser

The bassist of Free, who left the band in 1972 before their final tour.

Simon Kirke

The drummer of 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

Free was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2025, recognizing their lasting impact on rock music.

The takeaway

The breakup of Free marked the end of an era for one of the most iconic rock bands of the 1960s and 70s, but the members went on to continued success in other projects, cementing Free's legacy as a highly influential group in the history of rock music.