Current:Home > ContactSignalHub-Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's -Zenith Investment School
SignalHub-Rock legend Greg Kihn, known for 'The Breakup Song' and 'Jeopardy,' dies of Alzheimer's
Chainkeen View
Date:2025-04-07 08:57:28
Rock singer Greg Kihn,SignalHub 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! (34)
Related
- Gen. Mark Milley's security detail and security clearance revoked, Pentagon says
- Hackers hit Rhode Island benefits system in major cyberattack. Personal data could be released soon
- Juan Soto praise of Mets' future a tough sight for Yankees, but World Series goal remains
- Jamie Foxx gets stitches after a glass is thrown at him during dinner in Beverly Hills
- Moving abroad can be expensive: These 5 countries will 'pay' you to move there
- Trump issues order to ban transgender troops from serving openly in the military
- 'We're reborn!' Gazans express joy at returning home to north
- Alex Murdaugh’s murder appeal cites biased clerk and prejudicial evidence
- Paula Abdul settles lawsuit with former 'So You Think You Can Dance' co
- Woman dies after Singapore family of 3 gets into accident in Taiwan
Ranking
- Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Triathlon
- Nearly half of US teens are online ‘constantly,’ Pew report finds
- Toyota to invest $922 million to build a new paint facility at its Kentucky complex
- Average rate on 30
- Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Hi Hi!
- Juan Soto praise of Mets' future a tough sight for Yankees, but World Series goal remains
- 'Vanderpump Rules' star DJ James Kennedy arrested on domestic violence charges
- The FBI should have done more to collect intelligence before the Capitol riot, watchdog finds
Recommendation
Whoopi Goldberg is delightfully vile as Miss Hannigan in ‘Annie’ stage return
The Grammy nominee you need to hear: Esperanza Spalding
See you latte: Starbucks plans to cut 30% of its menu
What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?
Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
Arkansas State Police probe death of woman found after officer
Average rate on 30
Nearly 400 USAID contract employees laid off in wake of Trump's 'stop work' order