Rick Derringer, Singer-Songwriter Known For ‘Hang On Sloopy’ and ‘Rock And Roll, Hoochie Coo’ Dead at 77

Rick Derringer, the classic rock artist-songwriter best known for performing garage rock hit “Hang On Sloopy” and for writing “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Coo,” has died, a rep for Derringer confirmed. He was 77.

“With a career spanning six decades, the legendary Rick Derringer left an indelible mark on the music industry as a guitarist, singer-songwriter and producer,” Wilson said in a statement on Facebook. He didn’t disclose a cause of death but said Derringer died in Ormond Beach, Florida. “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 wrote that “out of respect for Rick Derringer’s family and loved ones, details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be announced” at a later date.

Derringer was born in Celina, Ohio in 1947. He first broke through with his band The McCoys back in the ’60s, with “Hang On Sloopy” topping the Hot 100 in 1965. The band’s next single, a cover of the song “Fever,” peaked at Number Seven on the chart. By the ’70s, Derringer found further success with his song “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Coo.” Johnny Winter first released a version of the song in 1970 on the album Johnny Winter And, which featured Derringer and fellow McCoys members Randy Jo Hobbs and Randy Zehringer. Derringer released his own version in 1973, with his version hitting 23 on the Hot 100.

Derringer also worked with Johnny’s brother Edgar Winter, producing his songs “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride.” Derringer also wrote and performed “Real American,” which appeared on the WWF’s Wrestling Album that Derringer produced. That song would become Hulk Hogan’s theme.

Derringer was prolific, working with a range of major acts including Cyndi Lauper, Kiss, Steely Dan, Barbra Streisand, Bonnie Tyler and Ringo Starr. He produced Weird Al Yankovic‘s first six albums, winning a Grammy for “Eat It” (a parody of Michael Jackson’s Beat It) in 1984 for best comedy recording.

“I’m very sad to say that my friend, rock guitar legend Rick Derringer, has passed,” Yankovic wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. “He had an enormous impact on my life, and will be missed greatly.”