Musician Rick Derringer, known for ‘Hang On Sloopy’ and producing ‘Weird Al,’ passes away at 77

Renowned musician Rick Derringer, famous for his teenage stardom and iconic tracks, has passed away at age 77. The announcement of his death came through a Facebook post by his caretaker, Tony Wilson, without disclosing the cause. Derringer’s remarkable career in the music industry included a broad spectrum of achievements that ranged from chart-topping singles to award-winning productions and collaborations with some of the industry’s finest.

Starting his musical journey as a member of The McCoys, Derringer gained recognition with the band’s rendition of “Hang On Sloopy.” His solo success peaked with the hit song “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” which later featured in the fourth season of the popular television series “Stranger Things.” A significant milestone in his career was the album “All American Boy” in 1973, which received critical acclaim and featured hit instrumentals like “Joy Ride” and “Time Warp.”

Derringer’s influence transcended music production as he went on to produce Grammy-winning albums for artists like “Weird Al” Yankovic, notably the parody hit “Eat It.” Yankovic, paying his respects, commemorated their collaboration in an Instagram post, acknowledging Derringer as a music legend and lauding his impact on Yankovic’s life and career. Derringer’s involvement in the production of “The Wrestling Album” for the World Wrestling Federation solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented producer, earning him well-deserved recognition.

Apart from his solo achievements, Derringer’s work as a session musician on various albums by renowned artists such as Steely Dan, Todd Rundgren, Kiss, Barbra Streisand, and others cemented his position as a versatile and highly sought-after guitarist in the industry. His collaboration with music luminary Cyndi Lauper further showcased his diverse musical abilities, touring with her band and contributing to her chart-topping hits.

The loss of such a prolific figure like Derringer leaves an irreplaceable void in the music world. Fans, colleagues, and loved ones mourn his passing, remembering his exceptional talent, boundless energy, and lasting impact on the industry. Rick Derringer will be deeply missed, but his indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment will continue to resonate for years to come.