Dennis Locorriere, Dr. Hook's Iconic Voice, Dies at 76

The music world mourns the loss of Dennis Locorriere, founding member and lead vocalist of the celebrated country rock band, Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show. He was 76.

Locorriere passed away on Saturday, succumbing to complications from a long battle with kidney disease. The band shared the news via a statement on Sunday. Locorriere had announced his retirement from touring back in November 2025.

"Dennis faced his illness with remarkable strength, dignity, and resilience throughout, and remained deeply cherished by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his warmth, love, and the lasting impact he had on those around him,” the statement read. “We would like to thank everyone who supported Dennis during his journey and ask for privacy for his loved ones as they grieve this profound loss.”

Born in New Jersey, Locorriere co-founded Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show in 1969, initially serving as the band's bassist before stepping into the role of lead singer. Their signing with Columbia marked a pivotal moment, leading to a fruitful collaboration with children’s book author Shel Silverstein. Silverstein penned the majority of tracks on their first two albums, 1972's Doctor Hook and 1973's Sloppy Seconds.
Dr. Hook

These albums spawned hits like “Sylvia’s Mother” and “Carry Me, Carrie,” both sung by Locorriere, in addition to the band's breakout hit, “The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone,’” which was sung by Ray Sawyer, who passed away in 2018.

Shortening their name to Dr. Hook in the mid-Seventies, Locorriere and the band continued their chart success with covers of “A Little Bit More” and “Sharing the Night Together,” alongside original hits like “When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman,” “Sexy Eyes,” and “Better Love Next Time,” the latter three featured on their 1979 album, Sometimes You Win.

“A Couple More Years,” co-written by Locorriere and Silverstein for Dr. Hook’s 1976 album A Little Bit More, found further acclaim when covered by Willie Nelson (for 1978’s Waylon & Willie) and Bob Dylan, whose version appeared on The Bootleg Series Vol. 16.

Following Dr. Hook's farewell tour in 1985, Locorriere retained rights to the band's name and continued touring as Dr. Hook. Sawyer licensed the name and toured with his own lineup, Dr. Hook with Ray Sawyer. Beyond Dr. Hook, Locorriere released several solo albums.

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