Rick Derringer, the iconic guitarist and singer best known for hits like “Hang on Sloopy” and “Real American,” has passed away at the age of 77. His wife, Jenda Derringer, confirmed that he died on Memorial Day after being taken off life support. The rock legend had been hospitalized in recent weeks and had undergone three heart bypass surgeries in the last month.
Derringer’s close friend, Tony Wilson, shared that Rick had appeared to be doing well just days before his passing. However, on Monday night, while reaching for his pillow before bed, his heart suddenly gave out. Doctors believe he experienced a sudden shock, which led to his death. Jenda expressed her heartbreak, saying, “We thought we had years left, but God’s timing is perfect.”
Rick Derringer made a lasting impact on the world of rock music. He first rose to fame in the 1960s with the McCoys’ chart-topping hit “Hang on Sloopy.” In the 1970s, he became a force in New York’s rock scene, especially after producing the Edgar Winter Group’s massive hit “Frankenstein.”
Derringer later became the guitarist for the Edgar Winter Group and went on to collaborate closely with Johnny Winter, serving as both guitarist and producer. Throughout his career, he was part of multiple successful tours and album releases.
He was also known for his ties to pop culture. While working and performing with various bands, Rick met his first wife, Liz Derringer, in the orbit of Andy Warhol’s artistic circle. The couple became familiar faces in the rock world and appeared in several music publications of the time.
One of Derringer’s most enduring contributions was writing and producing “Real American,” a powerful anthem later embraced by public figures including Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Donald Trump.
Rick Derringer is survived by his wife, Jenda Derringer, and their daughter, Lory Loving Derringer. Fans, fellow musicians, and loved ones are mourning the loss of a man whose guitar work and songwriting helped shape the sound of American rock for generations.
