28/05/2025
RIP Rick Derringer
Rick Derringer (August 5, 1947 – May 26, 2025)
Rick Derringer, the electrifying American guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer whose anthemic “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and chart-topping “Hang On Sloopy” defined an era of rock music, passed away at the age of 77. Known for his blazing guitar riffs, larger-than-life stage presence, and contributions to rock, blues, and pop, Derringer’s legacy spans decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
Born Ricky Dean Zehringer in Fort Recovery, Ohio, Derringer’s musical journey began as a teenager when he formed The McCoys. At just 17, he led the band to international fame with their 1965 hit “Hang On Sloopy,” which knocked The Beatles’ “Yesterday” off the top of the U.S. charts. The song became an enduring classic, later adopted as an anthem by Ohio State University and covered by countless artists.
In the late 1960s, Derringer’s talents caught the attention of blues-rock icon Johnny Winter, leading to a fruitful collaboration. Derringer joined Johnny Winter And, contributing to albums like Johnny Winter And (1970) and Johnny Winter And – Live (1971). His song “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” first recorded with Winter, became a signature hit when Derringer released it on his 1973 solo debut, All American Boy. The track, with its infectious riff and rebellious spirit, remains a staple of classic rock radio and has been featured in films, TV shows, and even professional wrestling, notably as Hulk Hogan’s theme “Real American,” which Derringer wrote and performed.
Derringer’s versatility shone through his work with Edgar Winter, Johnny’s brother, on albums like They Only Come Out at Night (1972), which included the Grammy-nominated hit “Frankenstein” and the classic “Free Ride.” As a producer, he shaped the sound of both Winter brothers’ seminal works, as well as albums for artists like Weird Al Yankovic. His collaborations extended to Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, Richie Havens, and Todd Rundgren, showcasing his ability to bridge rock, pop, and blues.
In the late 1970s, Derringer fronted his own band, Derringer, releasing albums like Sweet Evil and If I Weren’t So Romantic, I’d Shoot You. He continued to evolve, exploring Christian music with his 2002 album Listen to the Lord and maintaining an active touring career, including stints with Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band in 2010 and 2011. His 2018 “Still Alive and Well” tour with Edgar Winter paid tribute to Johnny Winter, reflecting his deep connection to his musical roots.
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PRESS RELEASE
In a press release, it was reported that “renowned guitarist and entertainer Rick Derringer passed away at 8:09 PM on May 26th at Advent Health ICU, surrounded by his loving wife Jenda Derringer, his caretaker, and close friend Tony Wilson (aka Young James Brown).”
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. As a member of the McCoys, he achieved fame with hits like “Hang On Sloopy.” Derringer also worked with notable artists such as Steely Dan, Johnny & Edgar Winter, Alice Cooper, Kiss, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Cyndi Lauper, and Barbra Streisand, and penned hits like “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” “Still Alive and Well” and “Real American.”
In recent years he toured worldwide with Ringo Starr’s band, continuing to entertain fans with his signature energy and talent. Derringer’s legacy extends beyond his music but into pop culture—his passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones."
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