Rock & Roll Hoochie Koo - Rick Derringer (1974) 1/8/22

In 1970, Johnny Winter released his "Johnny Winter And" album...and with it, a hard-rockin' bluesy little number that later became a "Great Song of the '70s!"

Johnny's backup band on the album included the McCoys (famous for their "Great Song of the '60s," "Hang on Sloopy") and guitarist Rick Derringer.

Rick wrote the song "Rock and Roll Hoochie Coo" for Johnny, and in 1974, as he recorded his own solo album, he decided to cover his own tune--with "Great" results.

Rick's version went to #23 on Billboard's Hot 100, and might have gone even higher if radio stations hadn't realized that "Hoochie Koo" was slang for SEX. In those days, there were quite a few stations that steered away from that sort of subject matter.

Of course, those objections evaporated years ago, and the song has become a classic rock radio staple.

Trivia: On Rick's version, there are only two musicians: Rick, on guitar, bass, tambourine and lead vocals, and Bobby Caldwell on drums and background vocals.

"Rock & Roll Hoochie Coo:" a "Great Song of 1974!" (and a lot of fun)!

Rick Derringer:

Johnny Winter (original version):