The Last Chord: Rick Derringer’s Final Note at 77

Rick Derringer, the virtuoso behind “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and Hulk Hogan’s anthem “Real American,” has passed away at 77. But what does his death reveal about the music industry's fleeting loyalty to its legends?

Chris MarksMay 27, 20251 Mins read20

Rick Derringer performs at Oakland Stadium in Oakland, Calif. on July 23, 1977. Ed Perlstein/Redferns/Getty Images

He died in his sleep. But did Rick Derringer ever truly sleep?

The world awoke to the news on May 26, 2025: Rick Derringer, the 17-year-old prodigy who gave us “Hang On Sloopy,” the man who electrified “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” and the architect of Hulk Hogan’s iconic “Real American,” had passed away at 77. His departure was confirmed by Tony Wilson, his longtime friend and caretaker, who shared the somber news on Facebook. Derringer had been battling health issues in recent months, including a recent triple bypass surgery .

But what does it mean when a legend fades into silence? Derringer’s career spanned six decades, yet his name often lingered in the shadows of others. Was he a victim of the industry’s fleeting loyalty, or was his genius too vast to be contained by the narrow confines of fame?

The Echoes of Fame

Derringer’s legacy is a tapestry woven with collaborations that read like a who’s who of music royalty. From The McCoys’ 1965 hit to his work with Johnny and Edgar Winter, Alice Cooper, Steely Dan, and Cyndi Lauper, his influence permeated genres and generations. Yet, despite his extensive resume, mainstream recognition often eluded him. Why does the industry reserve its brightest lights for the fleeting, while the true artisans remain in the periphery?

The Soundtrack of a Generation

Beyond the studio, Derringer’s compositions became anthems. “Real American,” co-written with Bernard Kenny, transcended its origins as a wrestling theme to become a cultural touchstone, adopted by political figures and resonating with audiences far beyond the ring. Yet, how many truly understand the depth of its creator’s artistry? Derringer’s passing prompts a reflection on how we honor the architects of our cultural soundtracks.

The Final Note

As the music world mourns, one must ask: In an era where the ephemeral often overshadows the enduring, how do we ensure that the true legends are remembered not just for their hits, but for the soul they poured into every note? Rick Derringer’s death is not just the end of a life; it’s a call to reevaluate how we celebrate the architects of our musical landscape.