Guitarist Rick Derringer, Best Known for “Hang On Sloopy” & Edgar Winter Group’s Hit “Frankenstein,” Dies at 77
Rock legend Rick Derringer, best known for songs “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and “Real American,” passed away at age 77 on Memorial Day, May 26, 2025. He died after being taken off life support, following a heart-related medical episode. His wife Jenda Derringer confirmed the sad news with TMZ.
His friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, also shared that Derringer had a triple bypass two months ago. Wilson said Derringer seemed to recover well but over the weekend, he went into shock and later died at the hospital. Both Jenda and Wilson were by his side when he passed away.
Born on August 5, 1947, Derringer started his career in the 1960s, rising to fame as the teenage frontman of the McCoys with the hit “Hang on Sloopy.” The song quickly became a cultural staple and is still celebrated today, particularly in Ohio, where it’s embraced as a sort of unofficial anthem. In the 1970s, Derringer transitioned into solo work and high-profile collaborations, carving out a reputation as a dynamic musician and producer. His signature hit, “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” became a defining track of the era.
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At the same time, he worked closely with the Winter brothers, producing some of their biggest records and earning credibility within both the blues and rock communities. His guitar work found its way into some of the most respected corners of the industry, including contributions to Steely Dan and Edgar Winter’s hits “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride.”
The 1980s and 1990s saw Derringer expand his creative reach even further. He became a go-to producer for “Weird Al” Yankovic, helping to shape several Grammy-winning tracks that highlighted his gift for arrangement. He also made a mark in pop culture through his work with the World Wrestling Federation, crafting theme songs like “Real American” for Hulk Hogan. His guitar solos graced major power ballads by Air Supply and Bonnie Tyler, and he maintained strong creative ties with artists like Cyndi Lauper and Meat Loaf.
In his later years, Derringer shifted focus toward Christian music after a personal spiritual transformation in the late 1990s. He released several faith-based albums with his family and continued performing, blending blues, rock and gospel in a way that reflected both his personal evolution and lifelong passion for music. He is survived by his wife Jenda and one child from his previous marriage to Diane Derringer.
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