Current:Home > ScamsRock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -AlphaFinance Experts
Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
View
Date:2025-04-15 21:24:38
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! (78978)
Related
- The Best Stocking Stuffers Under $25
- Joaquin Phoenix says 'Joker 2' movie musical drew inspiration from KISS
- Toyota Tacoma transmission problems identified in 2024 model, company admits
- Pete Rose's longtime teammate Tony Perez opens up about last visit with baseball icon
- Sonya Massey's father decries possible release of former deputy charged with her death
- Our Favorite Everyday Rings Under $50
- Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024: What to know about the sales event and preview of deals
- Rachel Zegler addresses backlash to controversial 'Snow White' comments: 'It made me sad'
- Eva Mendes Shares Message of Gratitude to Olympics for Keeping Her and Ryan Gosling's Kids Private
- 'So many hollers': Appalachia's remote terrain slows recovery from Helene
Ranking
- RFK Jr. grilled again about moving to California while listing New York address on ballot petition
- ACLU lawsuit details DWI scheme rocking Albuquerque police
- SNAP benefits, age requirements rise in last echo of debt ceiling fight. What it means.
- Black bear found dead on Tennessee highway next to pancakes
- Beware of giant spiders: Thousands of tarantulas to emerge in 3 states for mating season
- Animal welfare advocates will plead with Texas lawmakers to help cities control stray pet population
- TikTok personality ‘Mr. Prada’ charged in the killing of a Louisiana therapist
- Love Is Blind's Hannah Reveals Her True Thoughts on Leo's Shouting Match
Recommendation
$73.5M beach replenishment project starts in January at Jersey Shore
A Carbon Capture Monitoring Well Leaked in Illinois. Most Residents Found Out When the World Did
Man pleads guilty in betting scheme that ensnared ex-NBA player Jontay Porter
Hurricane Helene brings climate change to forefront of the presidential campaign
Golf's No. 1 Nelly Korda looking to regain her form – and her spot on the Olympic podium
Teacher still missing after Helene floods pushed entire home into North Carolina river
1000-Lb. Sisters’ Amy Slaton Breaks Down in Tears Over Michael Halterman Split
'Survivor' Season 47, Episode 3: Who was voted out during this week's drama-filled episode?