Derringer was a producer, musician and singer
Rock guitarist Rick Derringer has died at the age of 77. No cause of death was given, but Derringer’s longtime friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, revealed the news on Facebook that the rocker died on Memorial Day.
“Renowned guitarist and entertainer Rick Derringer passed on at 8:09 PM on May 26th, surrounded by his loving wife’ Singer Songwriter and band of 28 years Jenda Derringer, his caretaker and close friend Tony Wilson.(AKA) Young James Brown,” he shares. “Out of respect for Rick Derringer’s family and loved ones, details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be announced at a future.”
Derringer gained early fame at 17 years old with his band, The McCoys. Their debut single, “Hang on Sloopy,” became a No. 1 hit in 1965 and is now a classic of the garage rock era. The track is popular in Ohio, where it’s often played at Ohio State Buckeyes games.
After The McCoys, Derringer formed Johnny Winter And with blues-rock guitarist Johnny Winter, solidifying his presence in the blues-rock scene. He contributed as a guitarist, songwriter, singer, and producer on many of Johnny and Edgar Winter’s gold and platinum records.
In 1973, Derringer released his first solo album, All American Boy, which featured his most famous solo hit, “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” This song had previously appeared on a Johnny Winter album but became a Top 20 hit for Derringer.
Derringer has had a significant career as a producer and session guitarist for a wide range of artists. He produced all of “Weird Al” Yankovic’s albums in the 1980s, winning two Grammy Awards for his work with Yankovic, including for the hit parody “Eat It.” He played guitar on two Steely Dan tracks, “Show Biz Kids” in 1973 and “Chain Lightning” in 1975. He also contributed to recordings by artists such as Alice Cooper, Richie Havens, Todd Rundgren, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, Kiss, and Bonnie Tyler.
Derringer wrote and performed “Real American,” which became famous as wrestler Hulk Hogan’s entrance theme music for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
Derringer has continued to record and perform, releasing several blues albums and touring with artists like Ringo Starr and Peter Frampton. He also ventured into smooth jazz and collaborated on a Christian music project with his wife, Jenda.
