Rick Derringer, one of The McCoys founding fathers has passed away at the age of 77.
In a formal statement on Tuesday (5.27,) spokesperson Tony Wilson announced that the legendary guitarist and entertainer died the previous day at his home in Ormond Beach, Florida:
“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.” “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.”
Born Richard Zehringer in 1947, Derringer founded The McCoys with his brother Randy and Dennis Kelly in 1962.
Gaining international recognition with their 1964 single ‘Hang On Sloopy,’ the composition has since become the official rock song of Ohio and is often played at sporting events. Other McCoys hits included a cover of the classic track ‘Fever’ and Ritchie Valens’s 1955 song ‘Come On, Let’s Go.’
Including the popular singles ‘Rock and Roll,’ and ‘Hoochie Koo,’ as a solo artist Derringer released All American Boy in 1973 and subsequently collaborated with Todd Rundgren and played guitar on songs by Steely Dan, Barbra Streisand, Cyndi Lauper, Weird Al Yankovic, and Alice Cooper. Rick also accompanied Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band on three world tours, starting in 2010, and is known for co-writing wrestler Hulk Hogan’s theme song, ‘Real American.’
Though his cause of death has not yet been disclosed, Derringer is survived by his wife Jenda, whom he married in 1998.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: Carl Lender