Rick Derringer, Legendary Guitarist and Singer, Passes Away at 77

Renowned guitarist and singer Rick Derringer, who rose to fame at 17 with his band The McCoys, passed away on Monday at the age of 77 in Ormond Beach, Florida. Derringer, who had a storied career spanning decades, was known for his work on iconic albums such as Steely Dan's "Countdown to Ecstasy" and Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors." He earned a Grammy Award for producing Yankovic's "Eat It" and was a respected session musician, playing on albums by Todd Rundgren, Kiss, and Barbra Streisand.

Key Takeaways:

Derringer rose to fame at 17 with his band The McCoys, who recorded the hit single "Hang On Sloopy."
He had a successful solo career, earning a hit with "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" and producing the Grammy-winning album "All American Boy" in 1973.
Derringer was a prolific session musician, working on albums by Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder, Todd Rundgren, Kiss, and Barbra Streisand.
He received a Grammy Award for producing Yankovic's "Eat It," which included the Michael Jackson parodies "Eat It" and "Who's Fat."
Derringer worked extensively with Cyndi Lauper, touring in her band and playing on three of her albums, including the hit "True Colors."
He also produced the World Wrestling Federation's "The Wrestling Album" in 1985, which included themes songs for pro wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan.
Derringer's legacy extends beyond his music, entertaining fans with his signature energy and talent.

Statistics:

77: the age at which Derringer passed away
17: the age at which Derringer rose to fame with The McCoys
1973: the year in which Derringer released his best-charting album, "All American Boy"
6: the number of albums Derringer produced for Cyndi Lauper
3: the number of albums on which Derringer played guitar for Cyndi Lauper
1985: the year in which Derringer produced the World Wrestling Federation's "The Wrestling Album"

Sources:

Facebook post from Tony Wilson, Derringer's caregiver