At 8:09 p.m. on May 26, the world lost a legend. Rick Derringer—rock icon, guitarist, producer, and musical pioneer—has passed away at the age of 77.
His band, The McCoys, made headlines in the 1960s when their famous song, “Hang On Sloopy,” topped the charts. Then came the song that encapsulated a generation: Hoochie Koo’s “Rock and Roll,” which is still playing on vintage rock stations today.
However, Rick was more than just a showman. From Cyndi Lauper’s Frankenstein to Weird Al Yankovic’s Grammy-winning songs Eat It and Fat, he worked with legends. I am a true American, so who could forget that? Yes, we got the iconic theme music for Hulk Hogan, “Real American,” from Rick Derringer. It became into the theme song for a whole wrestling period.
The music of Rick Derringer reverberated for more than 60 years in stadiums, radios, and hearts. From WrestleMania to garage rock, his sound influenced popular culture.
Foghat, another rock group, paid homage by stating:
“With Rick, we performed as a group. We are praying and thinking about his wife, family, and friends.
Surrounded by love, Rick passed peacefully with his wife Jenda, friend Tony Wilson, and caretaker by his side.
Rest easy, Rick Derringer. Your riffs, your spirit, and your legacy will live forever.
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