Classic Rock Guitarist and ‘Real American’ Singer Passed Away at 77, Wife Confirms
via CELEBRITY CBN / YouTube
Early Fame and Medical Emergency
Rick Derringer, the guitarist known for “Real American” and many classic rock hits, has passed away at the age of 77. His wife, Jenda Derringer, confirmed the news to TMZ, saying he died “peacefully” in a hospital in Ormond Beach, Florida. He had recently faced serious health problems and was taken off life support after a heart-related emergency. Just two months earlier, he had triple bypass surgery.
Born Richard Dean Zehringer on August 5, 1947, in Celina, Ohio, Derringer began playing music with his brother Randy in the late 1950s. His first big break came with the McCoys, whose 1965 song “Hang on Sloopy” became a No. 1 hit. That song remains popular at Ohio State football games and Cleveland Guardians events.
View this post on Instagram
Work With Rock Icons
After his early success, Derringer played with Edgar and Johnny Winter on songs like “Frankenstein,” another radio hit. Over the years, he worked with a wide range of musicians including Steely Dan, Todd Rundgren, Alice Cooper, Barbra Streisand, and “Weird Al” Yankovic. He also toured with Cyndi Lauper, who sang backing vocals on his solo song “Real American.”
“Real American” was recorded for the World Wrestling Federation and became well known as Hulk Hogan’s entrance theme. Derringer’s guitar work also appeared on Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” a song written by his frequent collaborator Jim Steinman.
Later Years and Final Projects
Later in his career, Derringer performed on tours with big names like Ringo Starr and Peter Frampton. He released more than 25 albums, including blues and jazz records. In his later years, after becoming a Christian, he and his wife made several faith-based albums together.
