Rick Derringer: A musical journey from 'Hang on Sloopy' to wrestling themes
Shreeaa Rathi | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | May 27, 2025, 21:15 IST
( Image credit : AP, TOIGLOBAL )
Rick Derringer's musical journey spanned an impressive sixty years, beginning when he captivated audiences as a teenager with the classic 'Hang on Sloopy.' He later soared to solo success with the electrifying 'Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo.
Rick Derringer, a musician whose career spanned six decades, is known for his teen stardom with "Hang on Sloopy," his solo hit "Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo," session work with artists like Steely Dan and Barbra Streisand, and writing/producing wrestling themes such as Hulk Hogan’s "Real American." His extensive work in various musical genres solidified his place in music history.
Derringer's career began in his teens. He achieved initial fame as the lead singer of the band The McCoys.
The band's hit song, “Hang on Sloopy,” became a smash in the ‘60s. This early success launched Derringer into the music scene.
In the 1970s, Derringer transitioned to a solo career. He produced the hit song “Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo.”
Beyond his solo work, Derringer became a sought-after session musician. He collaborated with a diverse range of artists.
His session work included collaborations with Steely Dan. He also worked with Barbra Streisand.
Derringer's versatility extended into writing and producing wrestling themes. One of his most recognizable works in this area is Hulk Hogan’s theme song.
“Real American” became synonymous with Hulk Hogan’s wrestling persona. This further broadened Derringer's impact on popular culture.
Derringer's career began in his teens. He achieved initial fame as the lead singer of the band The McCoys.
The band's hit song, “Hang on Sloopy,” became a smash in the ‘60s. This early success launched Derringer into the music scene.
In the 1970s, Derringer transitioned to a solo career. He produced the hit song “Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo.”
Beyond his solo work, Derringer became a sought-after session musician. He collaborated with a diverse range of artists.
His session work included collaborations with Steely Dan. He also worked with Barbra Streisand.
Derringer's versatility extended into writing and producing wrestling themes. One of his most recognizable works in this area is Hulk Hogan’s theme song.
“Real American” became synonymous with Hulk Hogan’s wrestling persona. This further broadened Derringer's impact on popular culture.