Legendary rock guitarist and producer Rick Derringer has passed away at the age of 77. His wife confirmed his death in a statement to TMZ, revealing that he died peacefully on Memorial Day, May 26, after being taken off life support following a medical episode.
The news was later shared by Rick’s close friend, Tony Wilson, on social media.
Born Richard Dean Zehringer, Derringer had a prolific music career that spanned over six decades. He first gained fame as the frontman of The McCoys in the 1960s, achieving major success with their 1965 hit “Hang On Sloopy,” which remains a classic of the garage rock genre.
After The McCoys disbanded in 1969, Derringer launched a successful solo career, releasing his debut album “All American Boy” in 1973, which included his well-known track “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.”
In addition to his solo work, Derringer was a sought-after session musician, playing on iconic tracks for artists like Steely Dan and Alice Cooper. He contributed guitar work to Air Supply’s “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” and Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” and produced “Weird Al” Yankovic’s first six albums, among other achievements.
Derringer continued to tour extensively into the 2010s, playing with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band and participating in Peter Frampton’s “Guitar Circus” tour in 2014.
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians. Ringo Starr expressed, “God bless Rick Derringer. It was great playing with him in the All-Starrs. I send peace and love to his family.”
“Weird Al” Yankovic also paid homage, stating, “I’m very sad to say that my friend, rock guitar legend Rick Derringer, has passed. He had a tremendous impact on my life and will be missed greatly. RIP.”
Many others in the music community have shared their condolences and memories of Rick Derringer, highlighting his lasting legacy in the world of music.
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