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In Memoriam May 2025: Rick Derringer and others
In Memoriam May 2025: Rick Derringer and others originally appeared on Goldmine. May's music losses include Rick Derringer, members of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, The Amazing Rhythm Aces, The Spinners, and more. Rick Derringer Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer Rick Derringer, born Richard Zehringer, passed away May 26 in Florida at age 77. The Ohio native first achieved success in 1965 as a member of The McCoys with the No. 1 hit 'Hang on Sloopy,' since recognized as the state's official rock song and has become a staple at The Ohio State University football games. The Midwest band's version of 'Fever' followed in the Top 10. In the early '70s, Derringer was a member of Johnny Winter's group called Johnny Winter And, with his composition 'Rock and Roll, Hootchie Koo' appearing on a studio album and a live album. Derringer also worked with Winter's brother Edgar, most notably producing the album They Only Come Out at Night, featuring a pair of Top 40 hits in 1973: 'Frankenstein' and 'Free Ride.' The following year, as a solo artist, Derringer hit the Top 10 with his version of 'Rock and Roll, Hootchie Koo,' complete with the Johnny Winter-style growl. In the mid-'70s, he formed the band Derringer and in the late '70s, it included fellow Ohioan guitarist Neil Giraldo, who went on to work with, collaborate, and marry Pat Benatar in the following decade. Over the years, as a guitarist and producer, Derringer worked with many artists including Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, Cyndi Lauper, 'Weird Al' Yankovic, Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band, and songwriter Jim Steinman's slew of artists: Meat Loaf, Bonnie Tyler, and Air Supply. Derringer stated that his guitar solo on Air Supply's "Making Love Out of Nothing at All" was his favorite of all the solos he had recorded. Click here to read and hear about Goldmine's Top 20 Rick Derringer Songs Ranked Larry Lee The Ozark Mountain Daredevils' drummer and vocalist Larry Lee passed away May 10 at age 78. Lee was with the Springfield, Missouri group from their 1971 beginning through 1982. Their Top 40 debut happened in 1974 with Steve Cash's harmonica driven 'If You Wanna Get to Heaven,' which reached No. 25. The following year, the group achieved their biggest hit with 'Jackie Blue,' which reached No. 3, co-written by Cash and Lee. Billy Earheart The Amazing Rhythm Aces' keyboardist Billy Earheart passed away May 13 at age 71. The Knoxville, Tennessee country rock group debuted in the pop Top 40 in 1974 with 'Third Rate Romance,' which reached No. 14 and did a bit better on the country chart, peaking at No. 11. The group's next single, 'Amazing Grace (Used to Be Her Favorite Song),' became a Top 10 country hit, and the single after that, 'The End is Not in Sight,' reached No. 12 on the country chart, helping the band secure a Grammy award for Country Vocal Group. Renaissance Records has just released Alive in America, a double album on green vinyl. The label's founder and president John Edwards told Goldmine, 'First of all, Billy was my friend. He helped organize the licensing of the live recording, and we also bonded over music and baseball cards. Billy was a huge baseball fan and he and I always discussed the great players of the '50s, '60s, and '70s. I will really miss him, he was one of the good guys in this business." John Edwards The Spinners' lead tenor vocalist from 1977 through 2000, John Edwards, passed away May 11 at age 80. Edwards was heard singing lead on the early 1980 gold single 'Working My Way Back to You/Forgive Me, Girl.' The medley format of a 1960s hit blended with a new composition from Michael Zager worked so well with the Top 5 hit 'Working My Way Back to You/Forgive Me, Girl,' that it was repeated with their next single, 'Cupid/I've Loved You for a Long Time,' and again, it became a Top 5 hit with Edwards singing lead. James Lowe The Electric Prunes' lead vocalist James Lowe passed away May 22. The Los Angeles psychedelic rock band reached No. 11 in early 1967 with 'I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)' followed by the intense 'Get Me to the World on Time,' which reached No. 27. Jill Sobule Singer-songwriter and guitarist Jill Sobule passed away May 1 at age 66. Sobule's 1995 song 'I Kissed a Girl' reached No. 66 for the Denver native and was accompanied by a fun video featuring male model Fabio Lanzoni. The same year as 'I Kissed a Girl,' Sobule's 'Supermodel' was part of the Clueless film soundtrack, and the video included scenes from that film. Johnny Rodriguez Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist Johnny Rodriguez passed away May 9 at age 73. From 1973 through 1975, Rodriguez topped the country chart a half dozen times with songs including his composition 'Ridin' My Thumb to Mexico,' which spent two weeks in the top spot. Mark Greene The Moments' original lead vocalist Mark Green passed away May 20. In 1968, the New Jersey R&B trio debuted in the pop Top 100 with 'Not on the Outside,' featuring Green's falsetto lead vocals. The single became an R&B Top 20 hit. After this first single on the Stang label, the team at the record company replaced the original trio with three other singers, Harry Ray, Al Goodman, and Billy Brown, who later recorded as Ray, Goodman & Brown. Simon House Violinist and keyboardist Simon House passed away May 25 at age 76. House was with Hawkwind in the mid-'70s and David Bowie in the late-'70s. Cleopatra Records founder Brian Perera stated, 'Simon wasn't just a musician, he was a sonic architect who helped shape the sound of a generation. He shared the stage with legends: David Bowie, Lemmy-era Hawkwind, and Nik Turner, always leaving his unmistakable mark. From the art-rock brilliance of Bowie's 'Boys Keep Swinging' era to the boundary-pushing tours with Nik and Cleopatra in the '90s, Simon's electrifying violin and cosmic keyboard work lifted every track, every show, and every moment. His vision brought depth, texture, and soul. He simply made everything better.' James Baker Hoodoo Gurus drummer James Baker passed away May 5 at age 71. Baker was with the Australian group from 1981 through 1984, including playing on their debut gold album Stoneage Romeos. In April of this year, bassist Kimble Rendall, who played with the band in 1981 and 1982, also passed away. Roger Nichols Songwriter Roger Nichols passed away May 17 at age 84. Nichols co-wrote the Top 100 singles 'Someday Man' for The Monkees, 'Out in the Country' for Three Dog Night, 'Times of Your Life' for Paul Anka, and three Carpenters' hits, 'We've Only Just Begun,' 'Rainy Days and Mondays,' and 'I Won't Last a Day Without You,' the latter also charting for Maureen McGovern. Charles Strouse Songwriter Charles Strouse passed away May 15 at age 96. Strouse co-wrote 'Born Too Late' with Fred Tobias for the Poni-Tails, a pop female vocal trio from Brush High School, in the Cleveland suburb of Lyndhurst, Ohio, which became a Top 10 hit in 1958. Strouse followed this success by co-writing many Broadway musicals including Bye Bye Birdie and Annie. Al Foster Jazz drummer Al Foster passed away May 28 at age 82. Foster played with Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, and many other jazz musicians over the years. In 1978, he released the first album under his name, the jazz fusion Mixed Roots. Michael B. Tretow ABBA sound engineer Michael B. Tretow passed away May 20 at age 80. Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and author Joe Matera has written a book on ABBA's self-titled hit filled third album, publishing later this year as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Matera told Goldmine, "The Beatles had George Martin, who was considered the band's 'fifth' member, and Swedish pop group ABBA had their fifth member in Michael B Tretow. The pioneering sound engineer was the sonic architect of the group's signature wall of sound. The chemistry between Tretow and the four members of the group was such that together they created a signature sound that has forever been etched into the music history books. Tretow, who was also a musician himself, worked with the band on all their albums, except for the group's 2021 album, Voyage. Paying tribute to Tretow, ABBA's Benny Andersson summed it up best when he said, 'You meant more to the four of us in ABBA than anyone else, and the finest sound engineer the world has ever seen.'" Joe Louis Walker As May began, we learned that singer-songwriter and electric blues guitarist Joe Louis Walker, born Louis Joseph Walker, Jr., passed away April 30 at age 75. Over the years, Walker was a featured guitarist on many albums, including B.B. King's 1993 Grammy winning Blues Summit album which included a duet of Walker's composition 'Everybody's Had the Blues.' For related items you may enjoy in our Goldmine store (see below): Click here for the Goldmine store This story was originally reported by Goldmine on Jun 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
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Music Legends Share Heartfelt Memories of Iconic Guitarist Who Died at 77
Music Legends Share Heartfelt Memories of Iconic Guitarist Who Died at 77 originally appeared on Parade. Guitarist , known for his work with The McCoy's and hit song 'Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,' died in Ormond Beach Florida on Monday, May 26. Shooting to fame at just 17 years old when The McCoy's dropped 'Hang On Sloopy" in 1965, the legendary rocker collected a Grammy Award for producing 'Weird Al ' Yankovic's debut album over his decades long career. Derringer worked with several other iconic artists in various capacities serving as a producer for Cyndi Lauper, rocked the solo on 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' by Bonnie Tyler, and even did session work for Steely Dan. Fellow artist and alleged caretaker Tony Wilson made the heartbreaking announcement on Facebook the morning after his passing."To my rocking best friend Rick Derringer it was my pleasure to be with your caretaker was a natural thing..." Derringer had a remarkable "behind the scenes" resume. He had a hand in several beloved albums playing guitar with artists spanning genres from Barbera Streisand to Kiss. Derringer even left a mark on the World Wrestling Federation, producing their 'The Wrestling Album,' comprised of wrestler's theme songs that he also happened to work on. In fact, his hit "Real American" served as Hulk Hogan's iconic song. Many artists flooded social media with adoring memories of the late artist amid the news of his passing. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Cyndi Lauper recalled some of the incredible work they did together: "He was one of the great guitarists," she stated. "I co-wrote with him on my Blue Angel album. And we did wrestling music together which was so much fun. He played for me when I sang with Patti LaBelle on her special. He was in the band when I toured for True Colors in 86. And he's is also in the live at Le Zénith Paris video. We shared a lot of special moments together. Rest easy my friend." Beatles legend Ringo Starr also paid a beautiful homage to his fallen friend. "God bless Rick Derringer," he wrote on Instagram. "It was great playing with him in the All Starrs. I send peace and love to his family." And the love for Derringer doesn't stop there. In a recent Facebook post, Wilson noted his intention to honor the late artist on his birthday, August 5th, with a tribute show in Florida. Nothing has officially been scheduled as of yet. Music Legends Share Heartfelt Memories of Iconic Guitarist Who Died at 77 first appeared on Parade on May 30, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
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Beloved '60s Rock Legend Dies at 77
Legendary guitarist Rick Derringer has sadly died. The "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" rocker passed due to heart issues on Memorial Day, May 26, according to TMZ. His wife reportedly told the outlet he died "peacefully" after being taken off life support, adding, "We thought we had years left but God's timing is perfect." Derringer's friend and alleged caretaker Tony Wilson told the outlet the rock legend underwent a triple bypass just two months ago but had recovered well until he took a turn on Monday evening. His wife told TMZ he was in good spirits despite his surgery and said he was "so positive and peaceful." The Grammy winner later died at a hospital in Ormond Beach, FL. Derringer first rose to fame as a teen performing with The McCoys, known for their song "Hang On Sloopy." He went on to collaborate with legends like KISS, Cyndi Lauper, Barbra Streisand, Alice Cooper, Steely Dan and "Weird Al" Yankovic. He won a Grammy Award in 1985 for producing Yankovic's parody of Michael Jackson's "Beat It," called "Eat It," which won for Best Comedy Recording. Beloved '60s Rock Legend Dies at 77 first appeared on Parade on May 27, 2025
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a day ago
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Rock Icon Shares Eulogy To ‘Dear Friend' and Fellow Legend Who Died At 77
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Rock Icon Shares Eulogy To 'Dear Friend' and Fellow Legend Who Died At 77 originally appeared on Parade. There may not have been a Rick Derringer without Edgar Winter. Derringer, the legendary guitarist behind the classic rock hit, 'Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,' died on May 26 at age 77. As a teen, Derringer tasted success as part of the '60s rock group, The McCoys—best known for their hit, 'Hang On Sloopy.' However, in the 1970s, his career received a boost when he first collaborated with Johnny Winter, before joining his brother's band. As part of Edgar Winter's White Trash and then The Edgar Winter Group, Derringer produced and played on hit songs 'Frankenstein' and 'Free Ride.' Derringer also recorded versions of 'Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo' on the albums Johnny Winter And and Edgar Winter's Roadwork. But it's the version on Derringer's debut album, 1973's All American Boy, that became a Top 25 hit. Following Derringer's death, Edgar Winter shared a touching tribute to his friend on social media. 'I write this with a heavy heart, yet one filled with so many memories,' he wrote. 'I lost a dear friend and bandmate, and the world lost one of the greatest guitarists and writers in Rock 'n' Roll. Rick Derringer! 'Rick was one of the most gifted, versatile, and adaptable guitarists I ever had the honor and pleasure of working with. He was a kindred spirit who loved and understood all music,' continued Winter, who called Derringer a 'true artist and creative collaborator.' 'His positive energy both on and offstage with our bands…gave us (and the world) moments to treasure for all time,' concluded Edgar. 'Rick is now up there with Johnny — in Rock 'n ' Roll Blue Heaven! I look up to them both with undying love and admiration.' Rick Derringer is also known for 'Real American,' the theme song to WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan. Derringer also worked with KISS, Cyndi Lauper, Alice Cooper, Steely Dan and 'Weird Al' Yankovic. Derringer won a Best Comedy Recording Grammy for producing 'Eat It,' Yankovic's parody of Michael Jackson's 'Beat It.'Rock Icon Shares Eulogy To 'Dear Friend' and Fellow Legend Who Died At 77 first appeared on Parade on May 30, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
3 days ago
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Legendary rock guitarist, Grammy-winning producer dies at 77
Legendary guitarist Rick Derringer, who rose to fame with his band The McCoys and produced several Grammy-winning records, died on Memorial Day. He was 77. Derringer died in Ormond Beach, Florida on Monday, May 26, according to a Facebook post from his caregiver, Tony Wilson. '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,' the post reads. 'Derringer's legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent,' it continued. 'His passing leaves a void in the music world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones.' No cause of death was announced. Derringer gained success in the 1960s as a member of The McCoys. The band's debut single, 'Hang on Sloopy,' became a No. 1 hit in 1965. The McCoys had several songs chart on the Billboard Hot 100, including covers of 'Fever' and 'Come on Let's Go.' Derringer also earned a hit of his own in 1973 with 'Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,' which peaked at No. 23. Derringer worked with numerous major artists such as Steely Dan, Alice Cooper, KISS, Cyndi Lauper and Barbra Streisand. He played guitar in bands for Edgar and Johnny Winter and produced all of the brothers' gold and platinum records, including 'Frankenstein' and 'Free Ride.' Derringer also produced 'Weird Al' Yankovic's Grammy Award-winning songs 'Eat It' (1984) and 'Fat' (1988). He also produced two of the World Wrestling Federation's albums, containing the hits 'Real American' and 'Demolition,' as well as three songs from the soundtrack of Tom Hanks' 1984 film 'Bachelor Party.' Pop headliner announced for The Big E Arena in fall 2025 performance Billie Eilish extends 2025 tour: Where to buy tickets to New York show 'I loved him': Legendary singer kissed 'errant father' goodbye as he died R&B legend backs out of music festival week before due to health issues Philly bands SNACKTIME, Mo Lowda & the Humble open Sunday Boston Calling main stage (Photos) Read the original article on MassLive.
