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Dennis Locorriere dead: 70s music legend dies after 'long and courageous' health battle
Reach Daily Express | May 17, 2026 9:40 PM CST

Dr. Hook frontman Dennis Locorriere died on Saturday May 16 aged 76. His management conformed the news saying his death occurred after a "long and courageous battle" with kidney disease. Their statement read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Locorriere, who, after a long and courageous battle with kidney disease, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on May 16 2026.

"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. 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." The band ,marked his death with a simple Instagram post. On a black background they featured his signature, the date of his birth and death and the famous Bugs Bunny quote: "That's all folks!"

Although born in New Jersey Dennis had lived in the UK for 24 years prior to his death. He had founded the group with Ray Sawyer, Billy Francis and George Cummings in 1969. They were known as Dr Hook & The Medicine Show until 1975, when they dropped the last part of their name.

They were best known for hits such as the chart topping When You're In Love With A Beautiful Woman, Sharing The Night Together and Sylvia's Mother.

Outside of the band Dennis was also an acclaimed songwriter for others and his music has been recorded by the likes of Bob Dylan, Crystal Gayle, BJ Thomas, Helen Reddy, Willie Nelson, Southside Johnny and Olivia Newton-John.

After the original line up split, he released several solo albums and toured under the names Voice of Dr. Hook and Dennis Locorriere Celebrates Dr. Hook Hits and History Tour.

In 2019 he began the Dr Hook 50th Anniversary World Tour but was forced to postpone it after he underwent a prostate procedure resulting in kidney problems.

He continued to play until 2025 when, on Thanksgiving Thursday November 28, he took to social media to announce he had ceased touring as Dr. Hook although he did not rule out performing again at some time in the future.

In a series of slides on Instagram, he wrote, "Hey, first of all, happy Thanksgiving...Secondly, there has been some warranted speculation about the state of me recently. "Well, I'm here to tell you that I'm as healthy as a guy my age has the audacity to be, and happy to be living a peacefully normal life. Anyone who knows me can tell you I've been a road dog for most of my life. It's time to give up the one nighters.

"I've been quiet. I know raises questions. I'm not saying I'll never perform again. I don't know right now. I do know that life in hotels and airports is not for me anymore. I've been a lucky guy. I've had an interesting life so far, and I still have time to enjoy the rest," he concluded.


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