NBC has called Greg Kihn “Rock’s True Renaissance Man.” His career stretches from the dawn of punk and indie rock to the discos of the 80’s to the glory days of MTV. As a pioneer with the legendary Beserkley Records, he helped write the book on revolutionary west coast rock and roll. He’s toured the world, had hit records, appeared on Saturday Night Live and American Bandstand, opened for the Rolling Stones, jammed with Bruce Springsteen, and won the ASCAP and Midem Awards for his worldwide #1 hit JEOPARDY and THE BREAKUP SONG. He’s also a published author of four novels, the most recent of which is PAINTED BLACK, a Mystery/Thriller about the death of Brian Jones of the legendary rock n’ roll band The Rolling Stones.
In This Episode:
02:05 – Greg’s life philosophy and why we should rethink the word “work”
03:53 – A story from Greg’s childhood
06:47 – Why a creative person is like a shark
09:25 – The secret to life
10:35 – All the books Greg has published
12:25 – Greg’s journey writing Rubber Soul, fictional mystery about the Beatles
20:24 – Greg’s most recent book, Painted Black, who killed Brian Jones?
26:13 – Greg’s radio career, favorite part of having a morning show
30:20 – How Greg retained the rights to all his old recordings and re-released with original artwork
34:15 – How Greg sees the subtleties of his music
35:50 – Greg’s legacy
37:16 – What Greg does when he hears his song on the radio
38:10 – Projects for 2017: Jeopardy remix, first studio album in years (Re-Kihndled), band documentary
40:57 – What’s in store for Greg’s autobiography
42:25 – How to stay in touch with Greg
0 thoughts on ““Renaissance Man” Greg Kihn Talks Fun, the Creative Life and Rock n Roll”
Great interview. I used to think that “The Break Up Song” was the best rock and roll of all time. Loved hearing his stories.