Rock icon Greg Kihn, famous for ‘The Breakup Song’ and ‘Jeopardy,’ passes away due to Alzheimer’s
Kihn launched his music journey when he relocated to San Francisco in the 1970s, gaining worldwide recognition by the 1980s with a series of acclaimed albums and international tours.
Renowned rock musician Greg Kihn, celebrated for his hit songs “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song,” has passed away at the age of 75.
The lead singer of the “Greg Kihn Band” died on Tuesday after a difficult battle with Alzheimer’s disease, as shared in a eulogy by his friend Skyler Turtle, a member of Kihn’s management team. His family opted not to reveal the specifics about his passing.
The Baltimore-born artist became a cultural icon, drawing a diverse fan base across generations thanks to his captivating stage presence and distinctive storytelling, according to the eulogy.
“His unique songwriting, which fuses elements of folk, rock, blues, and pop, contributed significantly to his impactful musical legacy within the San Francisco Bay Area,” the eulogy stated. “Rest in peace, dear Greg. Your music, voice, stories, spirit, and passion will remain in our hearts and inspire countless others. Rock Kihn Roll Forever!”
Daytime DJ and novelist, nighttime rock star
Kihn began his music career after moving to San Francisco in the early ’70s and rose to global fame by the 1980s, thanks to his successful albums and worldwide tours.
In 1981, he released his signature song “The Breakup Song,” from his sixth album, “Rockihnroll,” which peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. The following year, “Jeopardy,” from his album “Kihnspiracy,” climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard charts, especially after being parodied by “Weird Al” Yankovic in “I Lost on Jeopardy.”
Aside from being an accomplished musician, Kihn greatly contributed to the San Francisco Bay Area music scene as a key figure for Beserkley Records. He was also a morning DJ on KFOX from 1996 to 2012 and authored several horror novels, including the Bram Stoker Award-nominated “Horror Show.”
“He was not only admired for his musical talent but also for his profound connection with fans through impactful lyrics and memorable stories,” the eulogy remarked. “Greg resonated with audiences through poignant issues and hilarious anecdotes from his rock star life.”
Other ventures included his philanthropic work, encouraging fans to support Operation Care and Comfort, a San Jose nonprofit that provides aid to veterans.
Family encourages fans to donate to The Alzheimer’s Association
Kihn’s family, including his wife Jay Arafiles-Kihn, son Ryan Kihn, and daughter Alexis Harrington-Kihn, request that fans contribute to the Alzheimer’s Association in his honor, in place of sending flowers.
A private memorial service will be held by the family to honor Kihn’s legacy.
“Those close to him remember not only a rock star but also a compassionate individual who spread joy and inspiration to all he met,” the eulogy concluded.