Greg Kihn Dies: ‘Jeopardy’ & ‘The Break-Up Song’ Singer & Songwriter Was 75

Greg Kihn, the singer and songwriter of 1980’s hit “Jeopardy,” has died. He was 75.

Kihn died on Tuesday, August 13, following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Greg Kihn, an iconic figure in the realm of rock music. Greg lost his battle with Alzheimer’s disease on 8/13/24 at the age of 75,” Kihn’s management said in a statement posted on his website.

“Known for his magnetic stage presence and unique storytelling that captivated audiences around the globe. He was not merely a musician but a cultural phenomenon whose influence will resonate for generations to come.”

Kihn was born on July 10, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland. His management describes his songwriting style as a “unique” blend of folk, classic rock, blues, and pop, adding, “his sound helped define a rich musical legacy in the San Francisco Bay Area scene.”

The rock star’s biggest musical hit came in 1983 when he released “Jeopardy” from his Kihnspiracy album. In May 1983, Kihn reached the No. 2 spot in the Billboard Hot 100, just behind Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.” Weird Al Yankovic parodied the song the following year by releasing “I Lost on Jeopardy.” Kihn agreed to the parody if Yankovic allowed him to participate in the music video — making a cameo at the end as Yankovic’s driver.

Kihn’s other hit songs include “The Breakup Song,” “Remember,” and “Lucky.”

He was a Morning Radio host for KFOX for 17 years and a syndicated nighttime radio host across the country.

Greg is survived by Jay Arafiles-Kihn (Wife), Ryan Kihn (Son), Alexis Harrington-Kihn (Daughter), Samora Harrington (Son-in-Law), Nate Harrington-Kihn (Grandson), Zuri Harrington-Kihn (Grandson), Laura Otremba (Sister), Lou Otremba Jr. (Brother-in-Law), Larry Otremba (Nephew), Lou Otremba III (Nephew), Matthew Otremba (Nephew).

“Jeopardy” music video.