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Rick Derringer, legendary guitarist and music icon, dead at 77
Music legend Rick Derringer, who was best known for the ’60s hit “Hang on Sloopy” and the ’70s single “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” has passed away. He was 77.
Derringer’s longtime friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, shared the shocking news via Facebook on Tuesday.
The legendary rocker died “peacefully” in his sleep on Monday, May 26.
“Renowned guitarist and entertainer Rick Derringer passed at 8:09 PM on May 26th, surrounded by his loving wife, singer-songwriter and band of 28 years, Jenda Derringer, and his caretaker and close friend, Tony Wilson,” the announcement read.
“With a career spanning six decades, The Legendary Rick Derringer left an indelible mark on the music industry as a guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer,” the message continued.
While no cause of death was initially given, TMZ reported that Derringer’s heart suddenly gave out.
The beloved rocker’s wife told the outlet that Derringer was rushed to an Ormond Beach, Florida, hospital on Monday night after suffering “some sort of shock.” He was taken off life support shortly after.
Wilson added that his longtime friend underwent triple bypass surgery earlier this year, but was “doing well” up until his sudden and tragic passing.
Born in Celina, Ohio, in 1947, Derringer shot to fame at 17 when he and his band, The McCoys, recorded “Hang on Sloopy.” The song reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1965.
Eight years later, in 1973, Derringer released his solo album, “All American Boy.” The hit single “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” was featured as a single on the record and once again launched the musician into super stardom.
The Grammy-winning artist later worked with music icons Ringo Starr, Alice Cooper, Richie Havens, Steely Dan, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, Kiss, and many more.
He also discovered Weird Al Yankovic in 1982 and helped the comedy musician produce the infamous Michael Jackson parody song, “Just Eat It.”
Several musicians have taken to social media to pay tribute to Derringer following the news of his sudden passing.
“So sad to hear about the passing of Rick Derringer,” former Mötley Crüe frontman Joe Corabi tweeted on Monday.
“What a brilliant guitarist/producer and songwriter,” Corabi added. “I saw him quite a few times, and was blown away at what he did with his guitar. R.I.P. Rick.”
“Rest in Peace my friend,” fellow guitarist Joe Bonamassa wrote in another tribute on X. “It was an honor to know you, work with you and call you a friend.”
Besides “Hang on Sloopy” and “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” Derringer was also best known for writing Hulk Hogan’s famous WWE theme song “Real American” in 2007 – a song that has since been used by several US presidents.
“Derringer’s legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent,” Wilson concluded the announcement of Derring’s death this week. “His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.”
Rick Derringer, legendary guitarist and music icon, dead at 77
