Rocker Greg Kihn, known from “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song,” dies at 75
Kihn pursued a music career when he moved to San Francisco in the early 1970s. He rose to worldwide fame in the 1980s with an award-winning discography and several world tours.
Rock singer Greg Kihn, known for popular hits such as “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song,” has died. He was 75 years old.
The frontman of the Greg Kihn Band died Tuesday after a tragic battle with Alzheimer’s disease, according to a eulogy delivered by Kihn’s friend Skyler Turtle, who works on Kihn’s management team. Kihn’s family declined to disclose the location of his death.
The Baltimore native was a cultural phenomenon whose international, cross-generational appeal was due to his “magnetic stage presence and unique storytelling skills,” the eulogy said.
“With his 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, and eventually achieved worldwide fame in the 1980s with an award-winning discography and several world tours.
In 1981, Kihn released his classic song “The Breakup Song” from his sixth album, Rockihnroll, which peaked at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. The following year, he released “Jeopardy” from his album, Kihnspiracy, which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard charts. The song’s popularity quickly grew when it was parodied by “Weird Al” Yankovic in “I Lost on Jeopardy.”
In addition to being a gifted artist, Kihn has parlayed his charisma and passion into a multifaceted career as a pioneer of the San Francisco Bay Area-based label Beserkley Records. He was also a morning host on KFOX from 1996 to 2012 and the author of several horror novels, including “Horror Show,” which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award.
“He was celebrated not only for his musical genius, but also for his ability to build a deep connection with his fans through powerful lyrics and unforgettable stories,” the eulogy states. “Greg was able to captivate his audience with real-world problems and hilarious tales from his rock star escapades.”
His other endeavors include his role as a philanthropist, urging listeners to donate to Operation Care and Comfort, a San Jose nonprofit that raises money for veterans.
Family calls on fans to donate to Alzheimer’s Association
Kihn’s family, which includes his wife Jay Arafiles-Kihn, son Ryan Kihn and daughter Alexis Harrington-Kihn, is asking people to donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in his name instead of sending flowers.
The family will hold a private memorial service to honor Kihn’s life and impact.
“Friends and family remember him not only as a rock star, but as a warm-hearted human being who brought joy and inspiration to everyone he met,” the eulogy said.
