Guitar Legend Rick Derringer Passes Away at 77
The music world is mourning the loss of Rick Derringer, the legendary guitarist, songwriter, and producer, who passed away on Monday evening in Ormond Beach, Florida at the age of 77. The news was confirmed by his caretaker, Tony Wilson. While no official cause of death has been disclosed, it’s known that Derringer had been dealing with health challenges in recent years.
A Musical Prodigy From an Early Age
Born in Ohio in 1947, Derringer received his first guitar at just nine years old. His passion for music was evident early on, performing live with his country musician uncle before he was even old enough to drive. By his teenage years, Rick and his brother Randy had formed a band called The McCoys, setting the stage for his breakout moment.
In 1965, The McCoys were chosen by producers The Strangeloves to be their backing band and were handed a song titled My Girl Sloopy. The group reworked the track into Hang On Sloopy, which soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making the 18-year-old Derringer a household name. The song dethroned Eve of Destruction by Barry McGuire and became an enduring anthem in Ohio — still played at Ohio State football games to this day.
A Versatile and Celebrated Career
Following the initial success with The McCoys, Derringer expanded his musical reach by collaborating with blues legend Johnny Winter, and later, Johnny’s brother Edgar Winter. It was during this period that his career truly took off.
In 1973, Derringer released his most famous solo hit, Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo. Though Johnny Winter recorded it first, Derringer’s version became the definitive rendition and remains a staple in classic rock playlists, even featuring in popular shows like Stranger Things.
Beyond his solo work, Derringer formed his own band in 1976, known for electrifying live performances, including onstage guitar battles and instrument tosses.
A Session Musician for the Ages
Few musicians have had the kind of behind-the-scenes impact Derringer did. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he was a sought-after session guitarist, contributing to albums by artists such as Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, KISS, and Barbra Streisand. His memorable solos graced iconic tracks like Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” and Air Supply’s “Making Love Out of Nothing at All”, both penned by hitmaker Jim Steinman.
In the mid-1980s, Derringer also toured and recorded with Cyndi Lauper, appearing on three of her albums, including the platinum-selling True Colors.
A Wrestling and Pop Culture Connection
Many fans first heard Derringer’s name through the world of professional wrestling. In 1985, he co-wrote and recorded several entrance themes for wrestlers, including the unforgettable Real American for Hulk Hogan. The song transcended wrestling, later being used by American politicians from both parties, including Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Donald Trump.
A Lasting Legacy
Over his six-decade career, Rick Derringer worked with an astonishing roster of artists, leaving a lasting mark on American music. His influence reached across genres, from blues and classic rock to pop and pro wrestling culture.
As the music world reflects on his remarkable life and career, thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, bandmates, and fans worldwide.
Rest in peace, Rick Derringer — your music lives on.