Rock Legend Rick Derringer, of "Hang on Sloopy" Fame, Dies at Age 77

Rick Derringer, the beloved guitarist, singer, and songwriter who left a huge mark on rock music and pop culture, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, in Ormond Beach, Florida. He was 77. His caretaker, Tony Wilson, posted on Facebook that Rick died peacefully after being taken off life support due to a health issue. His wife, Jenda Derringer, was right by his side.

Key Highlights:

• Rock Icon Rick Derringer, Voice Behind “Hang on Sloopy,” Dies at 77
• Guitar Legend Rick Derringer, Known for “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” Passes Away Peacefully
• Rick Derringer, Smash Hitmaker and Hulk Hogan’s Theme Song Co-Writer, Dies at 77

Born Richard Dean Zehringer on August 5, 1947, in Celina, Ohio, Rick became a star at just 17 as the frontman of The McCoys. Their 1965 smash hit “Hang on Sloopy” soared to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, turning into a rock classic and a favorite chant for Ohio State Buckeyes fans. It was later named Ohio’s official rock song. Rick’s soulful voice and killer guitar riffs made the song unforgettable.

In the ‘70s, Rick kicked off his solo career with the 1973 album All American Boy, which included “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” a tune that’s still a classic rock radio staple. He was a go-to guitarist for stars like Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, Kiss, and even Barbra Streisand. Rick’s epic guitar solo in Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is one for the ages, and he also jammed with Todd Rundgren and Ringo Starr.

Rick’s talents didn’t stop at music. He co-wrote and performed “Real American,” the iconic entrance theme for Hulk Hogan in 1985’s The Wrestling Album. It became Hogan’s signature and was later used by folks like Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Plus, Rick produced “Weird Al” Yankovic’s first six albums, snagging a Grammy for the parody hit “Eat It.”

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Even with health struggles, like triple bypass surgery in February 2025 and diabetes, Rick kept rocking the stage with his infectious energy. Fans and “Weird Al” have called him a creator of magical moments. He leaves behind Jenda and a legacy that’ll live on in rock and wrestling.