Classic rock guitarist, singer, producer, and songwriter Rick Derringer has passed away at the age of 77. The news was confirmed by Derringer’s longtime friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, in a Facebook post.
Derringer died on May 26 in Ormond Beach, Florida, surrounded by his wife, Jenda, and Wilson.
While no official cause of death has been announced, Derringer had been battling various health issues in recent months, including an ankle bypass, as shared on his and his wife’s official Facebook page.
Derringer’s musical career took off at just 17 when his band The McCoys scored a chart-topping hit in 1965 with Hang On Sloopy.
After touring with the band for four years, Derringer joined Johnny Winter in 1969 to form Johnny Winter And, later becoming part of Edgar Winter’s White Trash and contributing to the live album Roadwork.
In 1973, Derringer released his solo album All American Boy, featuring the iconic single Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo, which became a defining track of his career.
Throughout the decades, Derringer’s talents graced the work of legendary artists, including Alice Cooper, Richie Havens, Todd Rundgren, Steely Dan, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, and Kiss.
He also played a pivotal role in launching “Weird Al” Yankovic’s career, producing his early albums and hits like Eat It and Fat, earning a Grammy for his efforts.
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Derringer’s influence also extended into pop culture and sports entertainment.
In 1985, he penned “Real American” for The Wrestling Album, a song famously adopted by Hulk Hogan and later used by figures like Donald Trump and Barack Obama.
Later in his career, Derringer shifted towards smooth jazz and toured with Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band for three years.
In a tribute, Wilson wrote: “Derringer’s legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent.”
“His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.”
Tributes poured in following the news of Derringer’s death.
Guitarist Joe Bonamassa shared on X: “Rest in Peace my friend. It was an honor to know you, work with you and call you a friend.”
Joe Corabi, former frontman of Mötley Crüe, added: “So sad to hear about the passing of Rick Derringer. What a brilliant guitarist/producer and songwriter. I saw him quite a few times and was blown away at what he did with his guitar. R.I.P. Rick.”
Political analyst Roger Stone also posted: “So sorry to hear of the passing of my friend Rock Legend Rick Derringer last night. A great entertainer, a great songwriter, and a great patriot.” (sic)