AceShowbiz - Dennis Locorriere, the founding vocalist and guitarist of the 1970s country rock band Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show, has passed away at 76 years old.

Locorriere died on Saturday after enduring a long and courageous battle with kidney disease, according to a statement released by the band on Sunday. Prior to his death, he announced his retirement from touring in November 2025.

The band's statement praised Locorriere for his remarkable strength and dignity in facing his illness, highlighting the deep affection held for him by friends and family. It also expressed gratitude for the support he received and requested privacy for his loved ones during this difficult time.

Born in New Jersey, Locorriere co-founded Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show in 1969, initially serving as bassist and lead singer. After signing with Columbia Records, the band collaborated with children’s author Shel Silverstein, who wrote nearly all the songs on their first two albums: Doctor Hook (1972) and Sloppy Seconds (1973).

These early albums featured Locorriere’s vocals on singles such as "Sylvia’s Mother" and "Carry Me, Carrie," as well as the group’s biggest hit, "The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone,’" which was sung by bandmate Ray Sawyer, who died in 2018.

In the mid-1970s, the band shortened their name to Dr. Hook. During this period, they saw success with covers like "A Little Bit More" and "Sharing the Night Together," and original hits including "When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman," "Sexy Eyes," and "Better Love Next Time." The last three tracks were part of their 1979 album, Sometimes You Win.

Locorriere’s contributions as a vocalist and guitarist were central to the band’s distinctive sound and enduring legacy in the country rock genre.