The rock music world is mourning the loss of Rick Derringer, the celebrated guitarist and songwriter best known for the 1970s anthem Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo. Derringer passed away on Monday in Ormond Beach, Florida, at the age of 77.
The news of his death was confirmed by his longtime friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, who posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook. “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,” Wilson wrote.
While the official cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, it is known that Derringer had been dealing with health issues in recent months. According to updates shared on the official page he managed with his wife, he had recently undergone ankle bypass surgery.
Born Richard Dean Zehringer in 1947, Rick Derringer’s musical journey spanned more than six decades and left a significant mark across multiple genres. He first gained national attention as a teenager in the 1960s with The McCoys, whose hit Hang on Sloopy reached No. 1 on the charts in 1965.
His career further soared as he collaborated closely with brothers Johnny and Edgar Winter, contributing to classic hits like Frankenstein and Free Ride. Derringer’s guitar skills and production talents also led him to work with an eclectic mix of artists, from Barbra Streisand to Steely Dan.
One of Derringer’s notable partnerships was with parody artist “Weird Al” Yankovic. “I’m very sad to say that my friend, rock guitar legend Rick Derringer, has passed,” Yankovic shared on Instagram. “Rick produced my first six albums and played guitar on my earliest recordings, including the solo on Eat It. He had an enormous impact on my life, and will be missed greatly.”
Derringer also left his mark on pop culture in unexpected ways, including crafting the patriotic wrestling anthem Real American—a theme famously associated with Hulk Hogan.
Rick Derringer’s contributions to rock and American music culture are enduring. His energetic guitar style, innovative production, and collaborative spirit resonated across generations. His death is a profound loss to the music community and his legacy will continue to influence artists and fans around the world.
