The search for "Rick Derringer Tour 2025" has taken a poignant and unexpected turn. As of today, December 9, 2025, the music world is still mourning the loss of the legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter, who passed away earlier this year. Richard Dean Zehringer, known professionally as Rick Derringer, died on May 26, 2025, at the age of 77, bringing an abrupt and sorrowful end to what was expected to be a year of continued touring and rock and roll celebration.

The scheduled concerts and potential appearances that fans were eagerly anticipating have been cancelled, but the spirit of his final performances from the beginning of 2025 lives on. This article serves as a tribute, a deep dive into the final months of his touring career, and a comprehensive look at the extraordinary musical legacy he cemented before his death. The focus shifts from buying tickets to celebrating the man who gave the world "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" and "Hang On Sloopy."

Rick Derringer: A Complete Biography and Career Timeline

Rick Derringer’s life was a masterclass in American rock history, spanning over six decades of hits, collaborations, and production credits. His influence extended far beyond his own chart-topping singles, touching the careers of some of the biggest names in music. His story is a testament to the power of a single, versatile rock and roll guitar player.

• Full Name: Richard Dean Zehringer
• Born: August 5, 1947, in Fort Recovery, Ohio
• Died: May 26, 2025, at the age of 77
• Spouse: Jenda Derringer (Collaborator and fellow musician)
• Early Career (The McCoys): At just 17, Derringer rocketed to fame as the lead singer and guitarist for The McCoys. Their iconic 1965 version of "Hang On Sloopy" hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100, displacing The Beatles’ "Yesterday."
• The Johnny Winter Years (1968–1974): Derringer became a key collaborator and producer for blues-rock virtuoso Johnny Winter, contributing significantly to albums like Johnny Winter And and Still Alive and Well.
• The Edgar Winter Group (1972–1975): He joined the Edgar Winter Group, playing on their classic album They Only Come Out at Night. This era produced one of his most famous contributions: the instrumental hit "Frankenstein," which he also produced.
• Solo Success: In 1973, Derringer released his signature solo track, "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo," a song he originally wrote for Johnny Winter. It became a staple of classic rock radio and his biggest solo hit.
• Producer and Collaborator: His production credits are legendary, including six Grammy nominations and work with a diverse range of artists such as Steely Dan (playing the slide guitar solo on "Show Biz Kids"), Alice Cooper, KISS, and Cyndi Lauper.
• Final Years: Continued to tour extensively with his wife, Jenda Derringer, and remained an active figure in the classic rock circuit until early 2025.

The Rick Derringer Tour 2025: A Look at His Final Performances

The "Rick Derringer Tour 2025" was not a long one, but it was a powerful final run for the veteran rocker. Fans who saw him live in the first quarter of the year witnessed a rock and roll master still at the peak of his guitar-slinging abilities. These final concerts now hold a special, bittersweet place in the annals of music history, representing the last time the guitar hero would take the stage.

The search for specific tour dates in the latter half of 2025 will inevitably lead to disappointment, as all subsequent shows were cancelled following his passing in May. However, concert archives and fan reports point to a final flurry of activity that exemplified his dedication to the road and his craft.

One of the last confirmed concert dates for Rick Derringer was on March 11, 2025, just a couple of months before his death. These performances featured the high-energy setlists fans had come to expect, blending his solo hits with the classic tracks he helped create for The McCoys and the Edgar Winter Group. The setlist was a journey through rock history, a testament to his versatility and enduring catalog.

The energy he brought to the stage, even in his final performances, was a hallmark of his career. One fan report noted a show in the Philadelphia area being his "third to last show ever," highlighting his great mood, flawless playing, and constant smile—a true rock and roll professional until the very end.

The Enduring Power of "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" and His Musical Entities

While the physical tour is over, the musical entities Rick Derringer created and contributed to continue to tour the world through their influence and recordings. His impact is felt across multiple genres, solidifying his status as a foundational figure in classic rock. Understanding his key contributions is essential to appreciating his full legacy.

The McCoys: The Teen Pop Phenomenon

Before he was a rock guitar god, he was Richard Zehringer, a young man who helmed The McCoys. Their 1965 smash "Hang On Sloopy" is more than just a hit; it's a cultural touchstone. The song's raw energy and infectious rhythm set a new standard for garage rock and launched Derringer into the national spotlight, proving his ability to craft a timeless hit right out of the gate.

The Edgar Winter Group: Instrumental Rock Royalty

Rick Derringer’s tenure with the Edgar Winter Group yielded one of rock’s most enduring instrumentals: "Frankenstein." Derringer not only played guitar on the track but also took on the role of producer, shaping the song's groundbreaking sound. This period showcased his skills as a versatile musician and a keen studio mind, capable of delivering both blistering solos and chart-topping production.

The Solo Masterpiece: "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo"

The song that truly defined his solo career is "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo." Originally written for Johnny Winter, Derringer’s own 1973 version became his signature anthem. The track is a perfect distillation of classic rock—loud, swaggering, and technically brilliant. Its continued airplay on classic rock radio ensures that the spirit of the "Rick Derringer Tour 2025" will always be alive in the music itself.

The Legacy and Future Tributes to Rick Derringer

The passing of Rick Derringer due to health issues, including a triple bypass operation a couple of months before his death, was a shock to the industry. However, his legacy is not one of sadness, but of celebration. The sheer volume of his work, from his early days with The McCoys to his extensive collaborations with artists like Todd Rundgren and Bette Midler, ensures his music will continue to inspire new generations of guitarists and rock fans.

In the wake of his death, tribute concerts and memorial events are being planned to honor his life and music. These events, often featuring fellow classic rock legends, serve as the true "tour" for the remainder of 2025 and beyond. Fans should look for announcements regarding these heartfelt tributes, which will undoubtedly feature his wife and musical partner, Jenda Derringer, celebrating the man who was a rock and roll powerhouse for over half a century.

For those seeking the "Rick Derringer Tour 2025" experience, the best way to honor the legend now is to dive deep into his discography. From the raw energy of "Hang On Sloopy" to the undeniable cool of "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo," the music is the concert, and the legacy is the endless tour.