RICK Derringer, the legendary guitarist behind the garage rock number-one Hang On Sloopy and Hulk Hogan’s themes, has died at 77.
The musician passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Monday, according to a Facebook post by longtime friend and carer Tony Wilson.
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Rick had suffered from several health issues in recent months, according to the post, though no specific cause of death was given.
He shot to fame when he was just 17 after his band, The McCoys, recorded “Hang On Sloopy” in 1965 – and would go on to enjoy a career spanning six decades.
The record hit number one and is revered as a classic from the garage rock era.
After four years of touring, three members of The McCoys including Rick joined forces with the long-white-haired blues rocker Johnny Winter, in 1969.
As a four-piece the group put out an album called Johnny Winter And.
Rick later joined Johnny’s brother, Edgar Winter, full-time in his band White Trash, releasing the EP Roadwork.
In 1973, he worked a solo album, All American Boy, which featured the hit single Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.
Over the ensuing years Rick played alongside a string of rock’n’roll greats including Alice Cooper, Steely Dan, Richie Havens, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, and Kiss – amongst others.
In 1985, Rick was asked to arrange a song for the original WWF The Wrestling Album – and he came out with Real American.
The tune was originally intended for Mike Rotundo and Barry Windham, but it ended up becoming Hulk Hogan‘s theme.
Rick also put together Hogan’s other signature theme, Demolition.
Rick hooked up with comedy-musician Weird Al Yankovic, producing music for his albums and videos – such as the Michael Jackson parodies “Eat It” and “Who’s Fat.”
Rick’s sole Grammy Award came from his work producing Yankovic’s albums.
A shimmy across genres took Rick towards smooth jazz in the 2000s, and he eventually found himself touring with Ringo Starr and The All Starr Band for three years.
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In a toast to Rick’s life, his friend Tony wrote: “Derringer’s legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent.
“His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.”
Fellow musicians have also shared their fond memories of working with Rick.
Joe Bonamassa wrote: “Rest in Peace my friend. It was an honor to know you, work with you and call you a friend.”
Former Mötley Crüe frontman Joe Corabi wrote: “So sad to hear about the passing of Rick Derringer.
“What a brilliant guitarist/producer and songwriter. I saw him quite a few times, and was blown away at what he did with his guitar. R.I.P. Rick.”
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