Legendary Musicians React To Rick Derringer’s Death

Rick Derringer, the legendary guitarist, singer, and producer best known for hits like “Hang On Sloopy” and “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” passed away on May 26, 2025, at the age of 77. His death was confirmed by his wife, Jenda Derringer, and longtime friend Tony Wilson. Derringer died peacefully at his home in Ormond Beach, Florida, after being taken off life support following a medical episode.

From Ohio Roots to Rock Stardom

Born Richard Dean Zehringer on August 5, 1947, in Celina, Ohio, Derringer’s musical journey began early. By age nine, he had his first guitar, and with his brother Randy, he formed a band that would eventually become The McCoys. In 1965, at just 17, Derringer and The McCoys topped the charts with “Hang On Sloopy,” a song that became an enduring anthem, especially in his home state of Ohio.

The McCoys had several other hits, including covers of “Fever” and “Come On Let’s Go,” but it was Derringer’s collaboration with blues-rocker Johnny Winter that marked a significant turn in his career. Joining Johnny Winter And, Derringer contributed to the 1970 album of the same name, which featured the original version of “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.”

Solo Success and Iconic Collaborations

In 1973, Derringer released his debut solo album, All American Boy, featuring his rendition of “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” which became his signature song and a staple of classic rock radio.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Derringer showcased his versatility by collaborating with a diverse array of artists. He played guitar on Steely Dan’s “Show Biz Kids” and “Chain Lightning,” and contributed to albums by Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, and Bonnie Tyler. His guitar solo on Air Supply’s “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” was among his personal favorites.

Derringer also made significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling music. He co-wrote and performed “Real American,” the entrance theme for Hulk Hogan, which became an iconic anthem in the wrestling world. Additionally, he produced The Wrestling Album and its sequel, Piledriver: The Wrestling Album II, for the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
In the later years of his career, Derringer explored various musical genres, including Christian music and smooth jazz. He toured with Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band from 2010 to 2011 and participated in Peter Frampton’s Guitar Circus tour in 2014.

A Legacy in Production and Beyond

Beyond his performances, Derringer was a prolific producer. He produced the first six albums for “Weird Al” Yankovic, including the Grammy-winning parodies “Eat It” and “Fat.” Yankovic paid tribute to Derringer, stating on a Facebook post:

“I’m very sad to say that my friend, rock guitar legend Rick Derringer, has passed. Rick produced my first 6 albums and played guitar on my earliest recordings, including the solo on ‘Eat It.’ He had an enormous impact on my life, and will be missed greatly. RIP.”

English rock band Foghat also paid tribute to the legendary musician:

“We just sadly heard that Rick Derringer has passed. We did many, many shows with Rick back in the 70’s. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, family & friends. RIP Rick.”