Rick Derringer, Guitar Great and Voice Behind “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” Dies at 77
The world of rock has lost another legend. Rick Derringer, the Ohio-born guitar phenom who gave the world “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and collaborated with some of music’s most iconic figures, died peacefully in his sleep on May 26 in Ormond Beach, Florida, after being removed from life support. He was 77.
His wife Jenda Derringer and close friend Tony Wilson confirmed the news, sharing that Rick had suffered a medical episode just two months after undergoing triple bypass surgery. He had spent his final hours surrounded by loved ones.
From “Sloopy” to Stardom
Born Richard Dean Zehringer, Derringer exploded onto the charts at just 17 with The McCoys and their No. 1 hit “Hang on Sloopy,” knocking the Beatles’ “Yesterday” from the top. The McCoys’ success led to collaborations with Johnny Winter, Edgar Winter, and a long resume that reads like a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame wishlist.
In 1973, Derringer struck out solo, releasing All American Boy, which featured the definitive version of “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” The song became his signature anthem, famously appearing in Dazed and Confused and Stranger Things, and introducing his blistering guitar style to generations.
A Versatile Virtuoso
Derringer’s guitar licks also made their way onto Steely Dan, Todd Rundgren, and Alice Cooper records. In the ’80s, he laced solos on pop mega-hits like Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” and Air Supply’s “Making Love Out of Nothing at All.”
One of Derringer’s most enduring roles was as producer and guitarist for “Weird Al” Yankovic, shaping the sound of parody classics like “Eat It” and “Fat,” both of which earned Grammy wins.
An Artist of Heart and Faith
Later in life, Derringer embraced his faith, releasing several Christian music albums and performing with his family. He remained musically active, touring with Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band, performing with Peter Frampton, and releasing his final album Rock the Yacht in 2023.
Despite his evolving musical styles, Derringer’s philosophy remained unchanged: “As far as musicianship, that comes from your heart. Good songs are good songs.”
Tributes From Across Rock’s Hall of Fame
Musicians and fans flooded social media with tributes. Vinny Appice remembered Derringer as “a teacher, a mentor, and a brilliant songwriter.” Dennis Dunaway of Alice Cooper praised his “trail-blazing talent and great stories.” Rikki Rockett from Poison simply wrote: “Thank you for your contribution to Rock ’N’ Roll history.”
Derringer’s impact stretched far beyond his hits. Whether behind the mic, the console, or the fretboard, he was a consummate performer who moved effortlessly through rock, blues, pop, and even wrestling anthems (The Wrestling Album, 1985).
From “Hang On Sloopy” to “Hoochie Koo”, Rick Derringer rocked every decade he touched — and left behind a soundtrack that still echoes with swagger and soul.
