Legendary Rocker Rick Derringer has passed away at the age of 77. He died in the hospital surrounded by his wife, Jenda and close friend Tony Wilson.
Derringer will be remembered as a guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer. The northeast Ohio native began his career with The McCoys, where he had chart success with “Hang On Sloopy.” Derringer was only 17 when the McCoys recorded the chart topper.
He achieved success under his name with ”Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo” and the Hulk Hogan theme song, “Real American.”
Derringer was also a member of Ringo Starr’s band and played with Paul McCartney. His work included time with Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Cyndi Lauper and Barbra Streisand.
Classic Rock KSHE 95 St. Louis Program Director Marty Linck told Barrett Media, “Rick Derringer held a special place in the hearts of the KSHE audience—not just for his hit “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” but also for other beloved KSHE Klassics like “Everything” and “Don’t Ever Say Goodbye.” His solo work, his time with The McCoys, and collaborations with Steely Dan and Peter Frampton left a lasting impact on the music world.”
WDRV-The Drive Chicago Brand & Content Director, Keith Hastings said, “The name Rick Derringer might not be on the tip of everyone’s tongue, but hardly a day goes by without everyone being touched by his music and influences—The McCoys’ “Hang On Sloopy”, his major hit “Rock and Roll Hoochie Coo”, and his work on the classic rock staples “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride” from Edgar Winter. I can go on; that’s him playing on “Show Biz Kids, “Chain Lightning,” and “My Rival” from Steely Dan. He even worked with artists like KISS, Barbra Streisand, and Cyndi Lauper. Artists like Rick Derringer may pass, but their legacy never dies. It’s all around us in the greatest music ever made.”
David Moore, Operations Manager/Brand Content Director and Classic Rock 100.7 KSLX Phoenix PD, said, “When you have been in Classic Rock radio for as long as I have been, it is inevitable that you will have encounters with Rick Derringer. The first time I met him was when I was a teenager. A friend and I snuck backstage after his 1980 concert at the Motor City Roller Rink in Warren, MI. He figured out pretty quickly that we had no business backstage, but seemed to get a kick out of it and let us hang around. I told him that story years later, and he claimed to remember it.”
Fans, friends and colleagues took to social media to remember Derringer.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
