Rock just lost one of its true originals.
Rick Derringer, the powerhouse guitarist behind some of rock’s most enduring anthems, has died aged 77. His death was confirmed by his longtime friend and caretaker, Tony Wilson, who shared that Derringer passed away peacefully at 8:09 p.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025, in Ormond Beach, Florida. He was surrounded by his wife, Jenda, and Wilson during his final moments.
Wilson paid tribute with heartfelt words, saying Derringer’s legacy “extends beyond his music” and that he “entertained fans with his signature energy and talent.” He added that Rick’s passing “leaves a void in the music world” and that he’ll be “deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.”
Born Rick Zehringer in 1947, Derringer carved out a place in rock history early. He co, founded The McCoys in Ohio in 1962 alongside his brother Randy Zehringer and bassist Dennis Kelly. At just 17, he recorded the hit “Hang On Sloopy,” a track that catapulted the band, and Derringer, nto the national spotlight.
But Rick Derringer wasn’t just a one-hit wonder. He became a defining voice in classic rock with the explosive anthem “Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo,” a song that would later gain new life after being featured in Stranger Things season four. Wrestling fans around the globe also know his work as the composer of Hulk Hogan’s iconic entrance theme, “Real American,” a track that became a cultural staple in its own right.
His career was built not just on solo records, like his debut All, American Boy in 1973, but on an incredible list of collaborations. He produced Weird Al Yankovic’s first album and played a crucial role in Patti Smith’s early career, giving her her first major credit on the song “Jump.”
And the collabs didn’t stop there. He worked with Alice Cooper, Barbra Streisand, and Cyndi Lauper. He even had ties with Andy Warhol, who considered Rick a friend. In his later years, he continued touring internationally with Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band, showing fans he still had plenty of fire left.
As soon as news of his death broke, tributes began flooding social media. Vinny Appice, drummer for Black Sabbath and a former bandmate, wrote, “Rick was a great guitarist and even more a teacher to me , We recorded three albums together and played many tours, opening for Aerosmith, Boston, Foghat, and more.”
John Corabi, former Mötley Crüe frontman, called him “a brilliant guitarist/producer and songwriter,” while blues-rock legend Joe Bonamassa said, “It was an honor to know you, work with you, and call you a friend.”
Ron Onesti, president of Onesti Entertainment and owner of Illinois’ Arcada Theatre, shared one of the most emotional tributes. “He called me from his bed a few days ago, we planned on his return to The Arcada,” Ron said. “He said, ‘I want nothing more.’ I can’t believe it. He is now in Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo Heaven. God bless him.”
No official cause of death has been announced, but Rick Derringer had been dealing with various health issues in recent years. He underwent ankle bypass surgery not long ago, which hinted at ongoing medical struggles behind the scenes.
Even with all the challenges, Rick Derringer kept pushing. Until the very end, he stayed connected to his fans, his peers, and his music. His guitar riffs, his wild energy, and his unforgettable songs are more than just history, they’re part of the soul of rock itself.
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