Rick Derringer dead: 60s legend dies aged 77 as star's caretaker announces tragic news

Rick Derringer, best known for founding the rock band The McCoys and recording the 1965 hit song Hang On Sloopy with his bandmates at just age 17, has died. The news of his death was announced on Facebook by his pal and caretaker, Tony Wilson, in a heartbreaking update on Tuesday. He shared that the musician was surrounded by his wife Jenda Derringer and himself at the time of his passing.

In a heartfelt statement, Wilson 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." Wilson also wrote that Derringer "left an indelible mark on the music industry as a guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer". No cause of death has been reported.

Tributes started pouring in following the tragic news as his loved ones took to social media to remember his legacy and honor his memory.

Derringer's former bandmate, drummer Vinny Appice of Black Sabbath fame, shared a tribute for his mentor and friend.

"I woke up this morning to some sad news," he wrote in a Facebook post. "My mentor and friend Rick Derringer has passed. Derringer was the first professional band I played in 1976.

"Rick was a great guitarist and even more a teacher to me, recording, playing clubs and arenas. I went into the band with eyes wide open, ready to learn from a seasoned professional Rick," he continued.

"We recorded 3 albums together and played many tours, opening for Aerosmith, Boston Foghat and more. We even co-headlined with Journey on some gigs, we also had Tom Petty, THE RUNAWAYS open for us," Appice added.

"It was an amazing experience working together with Rick. I will never forget him, he was a [sic] amazing songwriter, guitarists [sic] and friend, may he rest in peace."

Former Mötley Crüe frontman John Corabi wrote on X: "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."

Born Rick Zehringer, later known as Derringer, co-founded The McCoys with his brother, drummer Randy Zehringer, in their native Ohio in 1962, and they played alongside bass player Dennis Kelly.

He was also famous for writing Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo - an iconic song that was used in season four of Stranger Things - and Hulk Hogan's Real American wrestling theme song.

Derringer was known for being a friend of Andy Warhol and for working with singer Cyndi Lauper.

In recent years, he had toured across the world with Ringo Starr and The All Starr Band.