Current:Home > NewsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -WealthFlow Academy
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-14 12:32:53
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! (3541)
Related
- Finally, good retirement news! Southwest pilots' plan is a bright spot, experts say
- Facing Grid Constraints, China Puts a Chill on New Wind Energy Projects
- Department of Energy Program Aims to Bump Solar Costs Even Lower
- Senate 2020: In Storm-Torn North Carolina, an Embattled Republican Tries a Climate-Friendly Image
- Juan Soto praise of Mets' future a tough sight for Yankees, but World Series goal remains
- Facing Grid Constraints, China Puts a Chill on New Wind Energy Projects
- Just hours into sub's journey, Navy detected sound consistent with an implosion. Experts explain how it can happen.
- Soon after Roe was overturned, one Mississippi woman learned she was pregnant
- Current, future North Carolina governor’s challenge of power
- Ultimatum: Queer Love’s Vanessa Admits She Broke This Boundary With Xander
Ranking
- Selena Gomez's "Weird Uncles" Steve Martin and Martin Short React to Her Engagement
- An Alzheimer's drug is on the way, but getting it may still be tough. Here's why
- The 25 Best Amazon Deals to Shop on Memorial Day 2023: Air Fryers, Luggage, Curling Irons, and More
- Go Under the Sea With These Secrets About the Original The Little Mermaid
- A White House order claims to end 'censorship.' What does that mean?
- Kids can't all be star athletes. Here's how schools can welcome more students to play
- McCarthy says he supports House resolutions to expunge Trump's impeachments
- Céline Dion Cancels World Tour Amid Health Battle
Recommendation
Can Bill Belichick turn North Carolina into a winner? At 72, he's chasing one last high
Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler Double Date With Her Parents Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber
This week on Sunday Morning (June 25)
Biden hosts India's Modi for state visit, navigating critical relationship amid human rights concerns
Apple iOS 18.2: What to know about top features, including Genmoji, AI updates
The Grandson of a Farmworker Now Heads the California Assembly’s Committee on Agriculture
Opioids are overrated for some common back pain, a study suggests
Kangaroo care gets a major endorsement. Here's what it looks like in Ivory Coast