The Breakup Song (They Don't Write...

Remember The Greg Kihn Band's catchy hit, "The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em)"? This 1981 power pop and pop-rock classic features an unforgettable guitar riff and earnest vocals. A lament for old-school heartbreak anthems, it became a defining track of the early 80s sound.

Featured on The Greg Kihn Band's 1981 album RocKihnRoll, "The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em)" perfectly captured the crisp energy of early 80s power pop. Driven by its instantly recognizable, cleverly arranged guitar riff and Greg Kihn's straightforward vocal delivery, the song blended pure pop-rock catchiness with a unique, slightly meta lyrical theme about music itself, making it stand out.

Released as a successful single around April 21, 1981, "The Breakup Song" became a Top 20 pop-rock hit and a signature song for The Greg Kihn Band. Its memorable title hook and relatable sentiment resonated widely with radio listeners. This power pop gem remains a well-loved fixture on classic hits and 80s rock playlists, celebrated for its infectious sound.

SONG MEANING: "The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em)" conveys the narrator's disappointment after a relationship ends, feeling that contemporary music doesn't adequately express his sadness. He listens to the radio but finds the songs lacking the emotional depth of older heartbreak tunes, leading to the central lament that "they don't write 'em" – meaning powerful, classic breakup songs – "like that anymore."