5 Things About the ‘Hang on Sloopy’ Singer Who Died – Hollywood Life

Rick derringerThe Rock Guitarist and Singer Best Known for the 1965 Chart-Topping Hit “Hang on Sloopy,” Died On May 26, 2025, at the age of 77 in Ormond Beach, Florida. His death was confirmed by his caregiver and friend, Tony wilsonwho shared that derringer passed away peacefully with his wife, Jenda Derringerby his side. The musician has been dealing with health complications following a triple bypass surgery earlier in the year.
Here’s a closer look at his life, career, and legacy below.
He rose to fame at 17 with “hang on slopy”
Born Richard Dean Zehringer in Celina, OHIO, Derringer Achieved National Fame at Just 17 Years old as the frontman of the mxi. Their rendition of “hang on sloopy” sored to no. 1 on the billboard hot 100 in 1965, overtaking the beatless’ “Yesterday.” The song remains an enduring anhethem, particularly in ohio, where it was designed the state’s official Rock Song in 1985.
He had a successful solo career
In 1973, Derringer Released His Debut Solo Album, All American BoyFeaturing the hit “Rock and roll, hoochie koo.” The song reached no. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Became a Staple of Classic Rock Radio. Its popularity endured, with appearances in films like Dazed and confused and the netflix series Stranger Things,
He collaborated with numerous music legends
Throughout his career, derrringer worked with a wide array of artists Across genres. He played guitar on albums by Steel dan, Bonnie Tylerand Barbra StreisandAmong others. He also toured with Ringo starr‘s all-star band and contributed to Cyndi Lauper‘s albums and tours.
He produced for “weird al” yankovic and composed “real american”
Derrninger produced several albums for “Weird al” yankovicIncluding the grammy-winning parody “eat it,” a spoof of Michael jackson“S” Beat it. “ He Also Co-Wrote and Performed “Real American,” which became the entrance theme for wrestler Hulk hogan And was laater used by various political Figures during Campaigns.

He Embraced Christian Themes Later in Life
In his later year, derrringer experienced a spiritual awakening that influenced his music. He began incorporating christian themes into his performance, reworking some of his earrlier songs to reflect his faith. In a 2023 interview with Jazz weeklyHe described Himself as a “Double agent for the Lord, Working Behind Enemy Lines.”
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