Rick Derringer, the iconic rock guitarist and vocalist renowned for his 1965 chart-topping smash hit “Hang On Sloopy,” passed away on May 26, 2025, at the age of 77 in Ormond Beach, Florida. The unfortunate news of his passing was confirmed by his devoted caregiver and friend, Tony Wilson, who shared that Derringer left this world peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife, Jenda Derringer. In the months leading up to his death, the celebrated musician had been grappling with significant health complications, particularly following a triple bypass surgery he underwent earlier that year.
Let us delve deeper into the remarkable journey of his life, his illustrious career, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
Achieving Stardom at 17 with the Classic Hit “Hang On Sloopy”
Born Richard Dean Zehringer in Celina, Ohio, Rick Derringer achieved national fame at the remarkably young age of just 17, taking the music world by storm as the lead vocalist and guitarist of The McCoys. Their unforgettable rendition of “Hang On Sloopy” soared to the top, reaching No. 1 on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965, even surpassing the legendary The Beatles’ iconic track “Yesterday.” The song has since become an enduring anthem, particularly cherished in Ohio, where it was officially designated as the state’s rock song in 1985, cementing its place in music history.
Thriving as a Solo Artist with a Dynamic Career
In 1973, Rick Derringer embarked on a successful solo career with the release of his debut album, All American Boy, which included the hit single “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” This energetic track achieved remarkable success, climbing to No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and quickly becoming a beloved staple of classic rock radio playlists. Its enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous films, such as Dazed and Confused and the widely acclaimed Netflix series Stranger Things, showcasing its timeless appeal across generations.
Collaborating with Music Legends Across Multiple Genres
Throughout his illustrious career, Rick Derringer had the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of artists across various musical genres, showcasing his versatility and talent. He contributed his exceptional guitar skills to albums by renowned artists such as Steely Dan, Bonnie Tyler, and Barbra Streisand, among many others. Furthermore, he toured with Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band and played a significant role in Cyndi Lauper’s albums and live performances, further solidifying his status as a sought-after collaborator in the music industry.
Producing for “Weird Al” Yankovic and Crafting the Iconic “Real American” Theme
Derringer made significant contributions to the music of “Weird Al” Yankovic by producing several of his albums, including the Grammy-winning parody track “Eat It,” a clever spoof of Michael Jackson’s legendary hit “Beat It.” Additionally, he co-wrote and performed the iconic song “Real American,” which gained immense popularity as the entrance theme for wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan and was later utilized by various political figures during their campaign rallies, further embedding it in popular culture.
Exploring Christian Themes in His Later Musical Endeavors
In the latter part of his life, Rick Derringer experienced a profound spiritual awakening that significantly influenced his music and artistic direction. He began to incorporate Christian themes into his performances, creatively reworking some of his earlier songs to resonate with his newfound faith. In a revealing interview conducted in 2023 with Jazz Weekly, he described himself as a “double agent for the Lord, working behind enemy lines,” highlighting his dedication to sharing his beliefs through his music.
