Current:Home > reviewsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -MomentumProfit Zone
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-23 13:48:27
Rock singer Greg Kihn, known for beloved hits like "Jeopardy" and "The Breakup Song," has died. He was 75.
The "Greg Kihn Band" frontman's death on Tuesday comes after a tragic battle with Alzheimer’s disease, according to a Thursday eulogy written by friend Skyler Turtle, who works on Kihn's management team. Kihn's family chose not to disclose the location of his death.
The Baltimore native was a cultural phenomenon whose international, multi-generational appeal was driven by his "magnetic stage presence and unique storytelling," the eulogy said.
"With a unique songwriting style that blended folk, classic rock, blues and pop, his sound helped define a rich musical legacy in the San Francisco Bay Area scene," the eulogy said. "Rest in peace, dear Greg. Your music, your voice, your stories, your spirit and your passion will forever echo in our hearts and inspire countless souls. Rock Kihn Roll Forever!"
Radio DJ and author by day, rock singer by night
Kihn pursued a music career when he moved to San Francisco in the early 1970s, eventually achieved global fame by the 1980s with an award-winning discography and several world tours.
Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
In 1981, Kihn dropped his staple track, "The Breakup Song," off his sixth album, "Rockihnroll," peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. The following year he dropped "Jeopardy" off his "Kihnspiracy" record, which reached a No. 2 spot on the Billboard chart. The tune's popularity was boosted soon enough when parodied by "Weird Al" Yankovic in "I Lost on Jeopardy."
In addition being a gifted performer, Kihn lent his charisma and passion to a multi-layered career as a pioneer for the San Francisco Bay Area-based label Beserkley Records. He also was a morning radio host for KFOX from 1996 to 2012 and the author of several horror novels, including Bram Stoker Award nominee "Horror Show."
"He was celebrated not only for his musical genius, but also for his ability to connect deeply with fans through powerful lyrics and unforgettable storytelling," the eulogy. "Greg related to and captivated his audiences with real world issues and hysterical tales from his Rock Star escapades."
Other endeavors include his role as a philanthropist, urging listeners to donate to Operation Care and Comfort, a San Jose non-profit raising money for veterans.
Family urges fans to donate to The Alzheimer’s Association
Kihn's family, which includes his wife Jay Arafiles-Kihn, son Ryan Kihn, and daughter Alexis Harrington-Kihn, are asking people to make donations in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association instead of sending flowers.
The family will hold a private memorial service to celebrate Kihn's life and impact.
"Friends and family remember him not just as a rock star, but as a warm-hearted individual who brought joy and inspiration to everyone he encountered," the eulogy said.
veryGood! (8)
Related
- The Best Stocking Stuffers Under $25
- Aston Barrett, bassist for Bob Marley & The Wailers, dies at 77
- What's going on at the border? A dramatic standoff between Texas and the White House.
- Wisconsin police officer fatally shoots armed motorist after chase
- The Grammy nominee you need to hear: Esperanza Spalding
- Lionel Messi effect: Inter Miami sells out Hong Kong Stadium for Saturday practice
- All-star 'Argylle' wins weekend box office, but nonetheless flops with $18 million
- New Grammy category for African music ignores almost all of Africa
- Meet the volunteers risking their lives to deliver Christmas gifts to children in Haiti
- Skydiver dies in Arizona, 2nd deadly incident involving Eloy skydiving events in less than a month
Ranking
- Macy's says employee who allegedly hid $150 million in expenses had no major 'impact'
- Alexandra Park Shares Rare Insight into Marriage with One Tree Hill's James Lafferty
- About 1,000 manatees piled together in a Florida park, setting a breathtaking record
- The New America’s Team: How the Chiefs have become the new ‘it team’ in professional sports
- IRS recovers $4.7 billion in back taxes and braces for cuts with Trump and GOP in power
- Ayo Edebiri confronts Nikki Haley, 'SNL' receives backlash for cameo
- Jason Kelce praises Taylor Swift and defends NFL for coverage during games
- Jillian Michaels Details the No. 1 Diet Mistake People Make—Other Than Ozempic
Recommendation
Most popular books of the week: See what topped USA TODAY's bestselling books list
See All the Couples Singing a Duet on the 2024 Grammys Red Carpet
A NSFW Performance and More of the Most Shocking Grammy Awards Moments of All Time
Grammys 2024: Paris Jackson Covers Up 80+ Tattoos For Unforgettable Red Carpet Moment
Why we love Bear Pond Books, a ski town bookstore with a French bulldog 'Staff Pup'
How Jon Bon Jovi Really Feels About Son Jake Bongiovi and Fiancé Millie Bobby Brown's Relationship
California bald eagles care for 3 eggs as global fans root for successful hatching
Oklahoma jarred by 5.1 magnitude earthquake