Movies

Rick Derringer, ‘Hang On Sloopy’ and ‘Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo’ rock guitarist, dies at 77

BBG News

Musical artist Rick Derringer, who played guitar and was once a member of the rock band The McCoys, known for hits such as “Hang On Sloopy” and “Rock And Roll, Hoochie Koo,” has passed away. He produced albums for various artists including Cyndi Lauper and Weird Al Yankovic. At 77 years old, Derringer has left us.

On Monday, a musician who gained fame in the mid-60s passed away in Ormond Beach, Florida. His caretaker, Tony Wilson, announced this on Facebook. According to Wilson, Derringer “received his wings” and passed away on Memorial Day. He was with Derringer, along with Derringer’s wife and collaborator Jenda Derringer, at the time of his death. The specific cause of death has not been disclosed.

Before his death, Derringer suffered “several medical issues,” according to his social media pages.

In a heartfelt tribute, Wilson penned that Derringer’s impact transcends his music, captivating audiences with his unique energy and skill. His departure has left an empty space in the music industry, and he will undoubtedly be greatly missed by fans, peers, and those closest to him.

Adam Yankovic expressed his heartfelt appreciation for Derringer on Instagram, stating, “Derringer left a massive imprint on my life, and his absence will be deeply felt.

Music

The garish clothing and platform boots. The shag haircuts and glitter makeup.

Born on August 5, 1947, the musician started his music journey by forming the band the McCoys with his brother Randy. At just a teenager, they gained fame with the release of their hit single “Hang On Sloopy.” This song would reach No. 1 on the charts and provide Derringer an early taste of fame – a taste that came during the peak of Beatlemania’s influence.

In an interview with The Times in 1993, he expressed that no teenager could ask for a better situation than having the number one record globally, with girls cheering and trying to grab his clothes wherever he went. He described it as the ultimate childhood experience, feeling like Christmas morning every day.

After gaining fame performing alongside brothers Johnny and Edgar Winter following their “Hang On Sloppy” popularity, Derringer released his first solo album, “All American Boy,” in 1973. This record introduced another hit single titled “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” to listeners.

Entertainment & Arts

In the first part of the 2010s, Phil Robertson, a popular figure on reality television, gained widespread recognition after A&E network developed a series centered around his family.

From the 70s and 80s, Derringer shifted his attention towards work as a session musician, teaming up with various acts such as Steely Dan, Todd Rundgren, Kiss, Barbra Streisand, and later Cindi Lauper. He also embarked on tours with Ringo Starr and the All-Starr band during this period.

Derringer collaborated extensively with “Weird Al” Yankovic, contributing to several of his albums that featured the comedic musician’s Grammy-winning parodies such as “Eat It” and “Fat,” which mimicked Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” and “Bad.” Additionally, he produced the World Wrestling Federation’s album titled “The Wrestling Album,” including Hulk Hogan’s popular theme song “Real American.

However, the public’s perspective on our collaborative novelty records hasn’t been entirely favorable. They seem to associate it with something negative, which is puzzling. Yet, we produced outstanding records together – we even won two Grammys. In an interview with The Times, he expressed this, adding that it didn’t necessarily benefit his career.

He stated, “About a couple of years back, I realized I was spending too much time focusing on other artists’ albums while neglecting my own career. It was then that I made the decision to return to creating my own music.

He carried on performing and touring, even collaborating with Starr from 2011 to 2014. Throughout the late 2000s and the start of the 2010s, he persisted in this endeavor. In 2023, Derringer, along with his wife Jenda Derringer, unveiled their eight-track album titled “Rock the Yacht.

Read More

2025-05-28 00:31

Previous post Galactus Defeats Doctor Doom: The Shocking MCU Twist Coming Next
Next post Final Destination: Bloodlines’ Shocking Garbage Truck Kill Behind-the-Scenes Reveal