Remembering Greg Kihn | ‘Jeopardy,’ ‘The Breakup Song’ and a Classic 2011 Interview

The world lost one of the great voices of classic rock and early MTV music in 2024 with the passing of Greg Kihn. Best known for hits like Jeopardy and The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em), Kihn built a career filled with sharp songwriting, unforgettable hooks and a warm sense of humor that made him beloved by generations of rock fans. This week on the Stuck in the ’80s Podcast, Spearsy honors Greg’s memory by revisiting the podcast’s classic 2011 interview with the late musician — one of the show’s all-time favorite conversations.

Before replaying the original interview, Spearsy reflects on Greg’s passing and the lasting impact his music had during the 1980s. Like many Gen X listeners, Spearsy remembers hearing Jeopardy blasting from car stereos and radio stations during the early MTV era, while The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em) became one of those endlessly quotable songs that seemed permanently woven into the soundtrack of growing up in the decade.

The interview itself captures Greg at his absolute best — funny, thoughtful and deeply appreciative of the fans who helped make the Greg Kihn Band one of the defining rock acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Along the way, Greg discusses his biggest hits, the changing music industry, life on the road during the golden age of rock radio and the strange experience of suddenly becoming part of MTV culture.

The episode also revisits the larger world of early ’80s rock music, when power pop, new wave and guitar-driven radio hits still dominated the airwaves. Like many classic Stuck in the ’80s interviews, the conversation feels less like a formal press junket and more like hanging out with one of the musicians who helped shape the soundtrack of Gen X life.

If you love classic rock, MTV nostalgia, memorable ’80s interviews and rediscovering the artists behind the songs that defined the decade, this episode belongs in your playlist.

The Stuck in the ’80s Podcast has spent more than 20 years celebrating the music, movies, television and pop culture of the greatest decade ever. Support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive livestream hangouts, behind-the-scenes content and merch for longtime listeners.

And don’t forget: Steve and Brad will once again be part of The 80s Cruise, the ultimate floating celebration of ’80s music and nostalgia. Use promo code STUCK when booking your cabin to receive up to $250 in onboard cabin credit while sailing with fellow Gen X fans and enjoying performances and appearances from many of the decade’s biggest artists. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.