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Greg Kihn, the singer-songwriter and guitarist who fronted the Greg Kihn Band, died August 13, 2024, at age 75. His official website announced the death on August 15 and attributed it to Alzheimer’s disease; the Associated Press and Los Angeles Times also reported that cause. Kihn was best known for “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ’Em)” and “Jeopardy,” two hits that carried his band from Bay Area roots to national chart success.
Who was Greg Kihn?
Born July 10, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland, Kihn moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1970s and signed with the independent Beserkley Records. His first album was released in 1976. The Los Angeles Times obituary describes the Greg Kihn Band’s sound as a blend of folk, classic rock, blues and hook-driven pop.
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Jeopardy Live | $46.12 | Buy on Amazon |
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Best Of Beserkley 75 -84 | $38.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Greg & Steve Productions YM-017CD Greg & Steve: Kids In Action CD | $19.90 | Buy on Amazon |
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Chartbreaker from the 80s | Buy on Amazon | |
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Rockclassic | Buy on Amazon |
Kihn was the band’s lead singer and guitarist, as well as a songwriter. Its first hit, “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ’Em),” arrived in 1981; “Jeopardy” became its biggest chart success in 1983.
How high did “The Breakup Song” and “Jeopardy” chart?
| Song | Chart result | Context |
|---|---|---|
| “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ’Em)” | No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1981, as reported by the Los Angeles Times | The Greg Kihn Band’s first hit |
| “Jeopardy” | No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1983, as reported by the Associated Press and Los Angeles Times | Its highest-charting hit; it was kept from No. 1 by Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” |
“Jeopardy” later became the source for “I Lost on Jeopardy,” Weird Al Yankovic’s parody. Kihn welcomed it and appeared in the video. The AP quoted him calling it “a brilliant parody,” adding, “He invited me to appear in his video, and I had a ball.”
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What did Greg Kihn do beyond music?
Bay Area radio
Kihn hosted the morning show on San Jose station KUFX-FM, known as KFOX, for 17 years. He retired from radio in 2018. That long-running local role extended his presence in the Bay Area well beyond his national chart years.
Horror fiction and short stories
He also wrote several horror novels, including Painted Black, Rubber Soul, Horror Show, Shade of Pale, Big Rock Beat, Mojo Hand and Carved in Rock, titles listed on his official website. Kihn edited a short-story collection featuring original work by Ray Davies, Pete Townshend and Joan Jett. The Los Angeles Times also noted his interest in raising rare praying mantises.
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Where can listeners start with Greg Kihn’s music?
Kihn’s official website describes Greg Kihn Band: Best of Beserkley ’75–’84 as a 21-track compilation, with 19 remastered original songs from the Beserkley studio albums, including “The Breakup Song” and “Jeopardy.” The page lists a CD purchase option and links to Amazon for a digital copy. It does not establish current prices or third-party stock.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What did Greg Kihn say before his death?
In July 2024, Kihn told fans, “After so many years of touring as well as doing radio shows … it’s finally time I get to chill out.” He continued: “Thank you to each and every one of you for all your love and support now and over the years. Rock on!” The AP reported those words in August 2024.
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- Singable lyrics and catchy melodies are set to a contemporary beat
- These tunes are a fun way to teach children Basic concepts
- Parents and teachers use this collection to teach concepts such as colors and numbers, as well as friendship and cooperation
- Item Package Dimension: 5.75" L x 4.88" W x 0.38" H
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