Current:Home > MarketsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -ApexWealth
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-26 10:46:32
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! (463)
Related
- Can Bill Belichick turn North Carolina into a winner? At 72, he's chasing one last high
- Cam McCormick, in his ninth college football season, scores TD in Miami's opener
- Clemson smacked by Georgia, showing Dabo Swinney's glory days are over
- Man arrested after crashing into Abilene Christian football bus after Texas Tech game
- Pressure on a veteran and senator shows what’s next for those who oppose Trump
- These Jewelry Storage Solutions Are Game Changers for Your Earrings, Bracelets, & Necklaces
- NASCAR Darlington summer 2024: Start time, TV, streaming, lineup for Cook Out Southern 500
- Mexico offers escorted rides north from southern Mexico for migrants with US asylum appointments
- Federal hiring is about to get the Trump treatment
- Are grocery stores open Labor Day 2024? Hours and details for Costco, Kroger, Publix, Aldi, more
Ranking
- 'We're reborn!' Gazans express joy at returning home to north
- The Week 1 feedback on sideline-to-helmet communications: lots of praise, some frustration
- 1 teen killed, 4 others wounded in shooting near Ohio high school campus after game
- District attorney’s progressive policies face blowback from Louisiana’s conservative Legislature
- New Mexico governor seeks funding to recycle fracking water, expand preschool, treat mental health
- Judge blocks Ohio law banning foreign nationals from donating to ballot campaigns
- The Rural Americans Too Poor for Federal Flood Protections
- One man dead, others burned after neighborhood campfire explodes
Recommendation
Federal hiring is about to get the Trump treatment
3 dead after plane crashes into townhomes near Portland, Oregon: Reports
Johnny Gaudreau's Wife Breaks Silence After NHL Star and Brother Killed in Biking Accident
California lawmakers approve legislation to ban deepfakes, protect workers and regulate AI
Nevada attorney general revives 2020 fake electors case
Summer camp lets kids be kids as vilifying immigration debate roils at home
Cam McCormick, in his ninth college football season, scores TD in Miami's opener
2024 fantasy football sleepers: Best value picks for latest ADP plays