Rick Derlingerthe most famous rock guitarist for his 1965 chart topping hit “Hang on Sloopy,” passed away on May 26, 2025 in Ormond Beach, Florida, at the age of 77. His death was confirmed by his caregivers and friends, Tony Wilsonwho shared that Dillinger passed away peacefully with his wife, Genda Derringerby his side. The musician was dealing with health complications after triple bypass surgery at the beginning of the year.
Below is a closer look at his life, career and legacy.
He gained fame at the age of 17 for “Hang on Sloopy.”
Born in Selina, Ohio, Dillinger, born in Richard Dean Seelinger, achieved national fame as the McCoys frontman at just 17 years old. The production of “Hang on Sloopy” skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965, overtaking the Beatles’ “Yesterday.” The song remains a permanent national anthem, especially in Ohio, which was designated as the state’s official rock song in 1985.
He made a successful solo career
In 1973, Dillinger released his debut solo album. All American BoysIt features the hit “Rock and Roll, Whoochy Coo.” The song reached number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a classic rock radio staple. Its popularity was endured and he appeared in films like films I’m vaguely confused and the Netflix series Stranger Things.
He collaborated with many musical legends.
Throughout his career, Dillinger worked with a wide range of artists across genres. He played guitar on the album Like steel, Bonnie Tylerand Barbla Stri Sandespecially. He toured again Ringo StarAll-Star Band and Contribution Cyndi RoperAlbums and tours.
He produced for “The Strange Al” Yankovich and composed “Real American.”
Dillinger produced several albums “Strange Al” Yankovichincluding the Grammy Award-winning parody “Eat It”, Michael Jackson” ‘beat it. ” He also co-written and performed “Real American.” Hulk Hogan It was later used by various politicians during the campaign.
He embraced the Christian theme later in his life
In his later years, Dillinger experienced a spiritual awakening that influenced his music. He began to incorporate Christian themes into his performances and reworked some of his previous songs to reflect his faith. In an interview in 2023 Jazz Weeklyhe described himself as “a double agent of the Lord, working behind the enemy’s boundaries.”
