The music world just lost a monumental figure — Greg Kihn, the iconic rock musician behind the hit “Jeopardy,” has died at 75.
At a Glance
- Greg Kihn, famous for “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song,” has passed away at age 75.
- Kihn succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease on Tuesday.
- He moved from Baltimore to San Francisco in the ’70s and signed with Beserkley Records.
- The Greg Kihn Band’s song “Jeopardy” reached No. 2 on Billboard HOT 100 in 1983.
- Kihn was also a DJ and author of novels and short stories.
A Legendary Career
Greg Kihn, the rock legend celebrated for his 1980s hits such as “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song,” has died at the age of 75, leaving a lasting impact on the world of music. Kihn, who had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, passed away on Tuesday, as confirmed by his management team.
Born on July 10, 1949, in Baltimore, Greg Kihn emerged as a prominent figure in rock music. In the 1970s, he relocated to San Francisco where he signed with Beserkley Records, cementing his place in the music industry. The Greg Kihn Band saw their first major success with “The Breakup Song” in 1981.
Rock singer Greg Kihn has died at 75 after battling Alzheimer’s. The Baltimore native's family is asking for donations in his name to the Alzheimer's Foundation. https://t.co/CLujSea1Ro
— USA TODAY Life (@usatodaylife) August 15, 2024
Chart-Topping Successes
In 1983, Kihn’s song “Jeopardy” skyrocketed to No. 2 on the Billboard HOT 100 charts, securing his legacy in rock history. Known for his innovative album titles like “RocKihnRoll,” “Kihntinued,” and “Kihntagious,” Kihn’s creativity knew no bounds.
Fellow musicians and fans alike admired Kihn not only for his musical talents but also for his wit and storytelling. His unique blend of folk, classic rock, blues, and pop enriched the San Francisco Bay Area music scene.
80s rock legend Greg Kihn dies aged 75 https://t.co/pjv75frdjZ
— Metro (@MetroUK) August 15, 2024
The Man Behind the Music
A multifaceted artist, Kihn also wrote novels and short stories. He was a longtime DJ for KUFX radio and served as a nationally syndicated nighttime radio host, further showcasing his versatility.
“Sometimes it seems that you pull a song out of the air, and that’s what happened with ‘Jeopardy,’ Kihn wrote decades later on his website. “It was as if the song was floating around in the atmosphere and I just snatched it up.”
Even though he struggled with health issues later in life, Kihn continued to carry out his passion for music until he was sidelined in 2019. He remained a significant figure in the 1980s nostalgia circuit, consistently performing hits like “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song.”
A Final Tribute
After a career filled with achievements, Kihn expressed gratitude in a heartfelt message on his birthday this past July. He told his fans, “After so many years of touring as well as doing radio shows … it’s finally time I get to chill out,” the post said. “Thank you to each and every one of you for all your love and support now and over the years. Rock on!”
Kihn’s contributions to music and culture were significant and enduring. As Martha Quinn, an original MTV VJ, poignantly said, “My condolences go out to his loved ones, and thank you Greg for the Rock KIHN Roll.”
“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,” added his eulogy, highlighting a life filled with passion, music, and memorable moments.
