Rick Derringer

Rick Derringer is an American rock guitarist, vocalist, producer, and songwriter best known for his 1965 hit "Hang On Sloopy" with his band The McCoys, and later for his solo anthem "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo." Born Rick Zehringer on August 5, 1947, he adopted the stage name "Derringer" as a nod to the small but powerful pistol — fitting for his punchy guitar style.

After The McCoys, he became a sought-after session musician and collaborator, playing with artists like Edgar and Johnny Winter and Steely Dan. He was also involved with the band Derringer in the 1970s and produced several albums for other artists, including "They Only Come Out at Night" by The Edgar Winter Group, which featured the hit "Frankenstein."

In later decades, Derringer continued performing, recording Christian rock albums after a personal religious conversion, and even writing entrance music for professional wrestlers in the 1980s, such as Hulk Hogan’s “Real American.” His career spans over five decades and reflects a mix of mainstream rock success and deep involvement in the music industry behind the scenes.