Greg Kihn, the rock singer-songwriter known for his iconic 1980s hits “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ‘Em),” passed away on August 13, 2024, at the age of 75. He had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for several years, which led to complications and his passing.

Kihn’s career began in the 1970s when he moved from Baltimore to San Francisco and formed the Greg Kihn Band. The band initially struggled, releasing several albums with little commercial success. However, their fortunes changed in 1981 when “The Breakup Song” reached number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving Kihn and his band their first taste of mainstream success.

The band followed this up with an even bigger hit, “Jeopardy,” in 1983. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100, just behind Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.” The catchy tune, featuring a memorable guitar riff and haunting lyrics, became a staple of early MTV and cemented Kihn’s place in rock history. The song’s popularity was further amplified when “Weird Al” Yankovic released a parody titled “I Lost on Jeopardy,” in which Kihn made a cameo appearance.
Despite his success in the early 1980s, Kihn never quite achieved the same level of fame in subsequent years. However, he remained a beloved figure in the music community, continuing to tour, record, and connect with fans. His influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary musicians who cite him as an inspiration. In addition to his music career, Kihn worked as a disc jockey in San Francisco and authored several horror novels, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Kihn’s death marks the end of an era for fans of 1980s rock. His contributions to music, characterized by catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, have left a lasting impact on the genre. He is survived by his wife, Jay Arafiles-Kihn, and his two children, Ryan and Alexis. His family will hold a private memorial, with a public celebration of his life to be announced later.