Current:Home > NewsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -ProsperityStream Academy
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-17 02:10:58
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! (15)
Related
- Where will Elmo go? HBO moves away from 'Sesame Street'
- The Sundance Film Festival unveils its lineup including Jennifer Lopez, Questlove and more
- Woody Allen and Soon
- Worst. Tariffs. Ever. (update)
- Have Dry, Sensitive Skin? You Need To Add These Gentle Skincare Products to Your Routine
- Turning dusty attic treasures into cash can yield millions for some and disappointment for others
- Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Follow Your Dreams
- Wisconsin kayaker who faked his death and fled to Eastern Europe is in custody, online records show
- Rylee Arnold Shares a Long
- Woody Allen and Soon
Ranking
- Tom Holland's New Venture Revealed
- Taxpayers could get $500 'inflation refund' checks under New York proposal: What to know
- Stock market today: Asian stocks are mixed ahead of key US inflation data
- Bill Belichick's salary at North Carolina: School releases football coach's contract details
- Global Warming Set the Stage for Los Angeles Fires
- Michael Bublé Details Heartwarming Moment With Taylor Swift’s Parents at Eras Tour
- 'Mary': How to stream, what biblical experts think about Netflix's new coming
- Syrian rebel leader says he will dissolve toppled regime forces, close prisons
Recommendation
Nevada attorney general revives 2020 fake electors case
New Jersey targets plastic packaging that fills landfills and pollutes
Hate crime charges dropped against 12 college students arrested in Maryland assault
Alex Jones keeps Infowars for now after judge rejects The Onion’s winning auction bid
Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
Oregon lawmakers to hold special session on emergency wildfire funding
Fewer U.S. grandparents are taking care of grandchildren, according to new data
Wisconsin kayaker who faked his death and fled to Eastern Europe is in custody, online records show