Current:Home > MarketsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -BrightFuture Investments
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-17 02:07:31
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! (59)
Related
- How to watch new prequel series 'Dexter: Original Sin': Premiere date, cast, streaming
- Harris and Biden are fanning out across the Southeast as devastation from Helene grows
- 'Pure electricity': Royals on verge of MLB playoff series win after Cole Ragans gem
- Caitlin O'Connor and Joe Manganiello’s Relationship Started With a Winning Meet Cute
- 'Survivor' 47 finale, part one recap: 2 players were sent home. Who's left in the game?
- How to watch 'The Daily Show' live episode after Tuesday's VP debate
- Federal appeals court rejects Alex Murdaugh’s appeal that his 40-year theft sentence is too harsh
- Kylie Jenner walks the runway wearing princess gown in Paris Fashion Week debut
- Arkansas State Police probe death of woman found after officer
- Caitlin O'Connor and Joe Manganiello’s Relationship Started With a Winning Meet Cute
Ranking
- Jamie Foxx gets stitches after a glass is thrown at him during dinner in Beverly Hills
- 'Pure electricity': Royals on verge of MLB playoff series win after Cole Ragans gem
- Video of fatal shooting of Kentucky judge by accused county sheriff shown in court
- A US bomb from World War II explodes at a Japanese airport, causing a large crater in a taxiway
- Intel's stock did something it hasn't done since 2022
- California lawmakers advance bill to prevent gas prices from spiking
- Why Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix Are Sparking Wedding Rumors
- Washington airman receives award after carrying injured 79-year-old hiker down trail
Recommendation
Jamie Foxx gets stitches after a glass is thrown at him during dinner in Beverly Hills
R. Kelly's Daughter Joann Kelly to Share a Heartbreaking Secret in Upcoming Documentary
Inside Pauley Perrette's Dramatic Exit From NCIS When She Was the Show's Most Popular Star
The Latest: Trio of crises loom over final the campaign’s final stretch
Krispy Kreme offers a free dozen Grinch green doughnuts: When to get the deal
Spirit Halloween Claps Back at “Irrelevant” Saturday Night Live Over Sketch
Kyle Richards Swears These Shoes Are So Comfortable, It Feels Like She’s Barefoot
Live Nation is found not liable for 3 campers’ deaths at Michigan music fest