Woodbury, Minnesota — Jill Sobule, the celebrated singer-songwriter known for her sharp wit and poignant storytelling, died in a house fire Thursday at the age of 66. The cause of the blaze remains unclear. Her publicist, David Elkin, confirmed her passing in a statement later that afternoon.
Sobule gained prominence in the 1990s with her hit “I Kissed a Girl,” which became an anthem for LGBTQ+ rights despite facing censorship on several southern radio stations. Her career spanned more than three decades and included the release of 12 albums that tackled a wide range of topics, from social justice issues to personal struggles.
Her debut album, “Things Here Are Different,” launched in 1990, marked the beginning of her exploration into meaningful and often challenging themes. By 1995, Sobule had firmly established her presence in the industry, particularly with the release of “Supermodel,” featured in the iconic film “Clueless.” These tracks not only showcased her unique voice but also resonated deeply with audiences, propelling her into the Billboard Top 20.
In 2022, Sobule showcased her life and artistry in an autobiographical off-Broadway musical that debuted at the Wild Project in New York. This production featured a mix of her music and personal anecdotes, offering fans an intimate glimpse into her experiences.
Determined to take control of her artistic career, Sobule was known for self-fundraising her projects. After facing setbacks with major record labels and independent companies, she successfully raised significant funds directly from her fans to produce new music. “This is so great. I want to do everything like this,” she reflected on her new approach to her career.
Sobule was scheduled to give a performance in Denver on Friday evening, but her passing has led to an informal gathering at the venue instead. Friends and fans are encouraged to share stories and songs in her honor. A more formal memorial to celebrate her legacy will take place later this summer.
The music community is mourning the loss of Sobule, with some remembering her infectious laughter and vibrant energy. Craig Grossman, her booking agent, expressed the void her passing leaves, remarking that her spirit will be missed both within the industry and beyond.
Born in Denver on January 16, 1959, Sobule described herself as a shy child who preferred observation over participation. She became known for her engaging live performances, often forgoing a set list to create a more spontaneous and vulnerable experience.
Throughout her career, Sobule collaborated with numerous music legends, including Neil Young, Billy Bragg, and Cyndi Lauper. In 2019, she even made a cameo appearance as herself on an episode of “The Simpsons,” adding a layer of pop culture to her diverse career.
Reflecting on her artistic journey in a recent interview, Sobule expressed her eagerness to continue evolving as a musician. “In a good way, I feel like I’m still a rookie,” she said, indicating her belief that her best work was yet to come. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, along with several nephews and cousins, leaving behind a rich legacy of music and advocacy.