The McCoys

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

The McCoys may have had a short run, but they achieved something many bands never do: a number one single that became a cultural touchstone. "Hang On Sloopy" sold over a million copies, earned a Gold record, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. It was also named the official state rock song of Ohio in 1985, a rare honor. The song's adoption by Ohio State University created a tradition that has lasted over 50 years, with tens of thousands of fans swaying and singing along at every home football game. The band's legacy is tied to that one song, but it's a legacy that continues to grow with each new cover and each new generation of Buckeyes fans.

AwardsThe McCoys won one major award: a Gold Record certification from the RIAA in 1965 for "Hang On Sloopy," which sold over one million copies. No other formal awards were won from ceremonies like the Grammys or Billboard Music Awards, as the band's peak came during an era with fewer award shows.

Honours & Distinctions

Ohio State Rock Song

Ohio General Assembly·1985

"Hang On Sloopy" designated the official state rock song of Ohio.

Grammy Hall of Fame

Recording Academy

"Hang On Sloopy" inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Rankings & Lists

#Included (exact rank not specified)

500 Greatest Songs of All Time

Rolling Stone·2004

#Listed among top one-hit wonders

The Hot 100's Hottest Hits

Billboard·2013

Records & Feats

Youngest artist to top Billboard Hot 100 at age 17

Historic First·1965

Rick Derringer was 17 years old when "Hang On Sloopy" hit #1 in 1965, making him one of the youngest acts to achieve this at the time.

Only song to become official state rock song of Ohio

Historic First·1985

"Hang On Sloopy" was designated the official state rock song of Ohio in 1985, a unique honor for a rock song.