Music legend Rick Derringer, who was greatest identified for the Sixties hit “Hang on Sloopy” and the ’70s single “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” has handed away. He was 77.
Derringer’s longtime buddy and caretaker Tony Wilson shared the stunning information by way of Fb on Tuesday.
The legendary rocker died “peacefully” in his sleep on Monday, Could 26.
“Renowned guitarist and entertainer Rick Derringer passed at 8:09 PM on May 26th, surrounded by his loving wife, singer-songwriter and band of 28 years, Jenda Derringer, and his caretaker and close friend, Tony Wilson,” the announcement learn.
“With a career spanning six decades, The Legendary Rick Derringer left an indelible mark on the music industry as a guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer,” the message continued.
Whereas no reason behind loss of life was initially given, TMZ reported that Derringer’s coronary heart all of a sudden gave out.
The beloved rocker’s spouse advised the outlet that he was rushed to an Ormond Seaside, Florida, hospital on Monday night time after struggling “some sort of shock.” He was taken off life assist shortly after.
Wilson added that his longtime buddy underwent triple bypass surgical procedure earlier this 12 months however was “doing well” up till his sudden passing.
Born in Celina, Ohio, in 1947, Derringer shot to fame at 17 when he and his band, the McCoys, recorded “Hang on Sloopy.” The music reached No. 1 on the US Billboard Scorching 100 in 1965.
In 1973, Derringer launched his debut solo album, “All American Boy.” The hit “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” was featured as a single on the report and as soon as once more launched the musician into superstardom.
The Grammy-winning artist later labored with music icons akin to Ringo Starr, Alice Cooper, Richie Havens, Steely Dan, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, Kiss and plenty of extra.
He additionally found Bizarre Al Yankovic within the ’80s and helped the comedy musician produce the notorious Michael Jackson parody music “Eat It.”
A number of musicians have taken to social media to pay tribute to Derringer following the information of his sudden passing.
“So sad to hear about the passing of Rick Derringer,” former Mötley Crüe frontman John Corabi tweeted on Tuesday.
“What a brilliant guitarist/producer and songwriter,” he added. “I saw him quite a few times, and was blown away at what he did with his guitar. R.I.P. Rick.”
“Rest in Peace my friend,” fellow guitarist Joe Bonamassa wrote in one other tribute on X. “It was an honor to know you, work with you and call you a friend.”
Moreover “Hang on Sloopy” and “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” Derringer was additionally greatest identified for recording Hulk Hogan’s well-known WWE theme music “Real American” — successful that has since been utilized by a number of US presidents.
“Derringer’s legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent,” Wilson concluded the musician’s loss of life announcement. “His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.”
