Minneapolis, Minnesota – Jill Sobule, the acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her groundbreaking hit “I Kissed a Girl,” has passed away at the age of 66. Her manager, John Porter, confirmed that Sobule died in a house fire while staying with friends in a suburban Minneapolis home on Thursday.
The tragic incident has left Sobule’s friends devastated; in addition to losing her, they also lost their residence and their pets. Porter shared his grief in a heartfelt statement, emphasizing Sobule’s significant impact on music and culture. “Jill was a force of nature and a champion for human rights,” he said. “I lost both a client and a dear friend today. Her music and legacy will continue to inspire.”
A native of Denver, Sobule entered the music scene in 1990 with her debut album, Things Here Are Different. Her 1995 self-titled album featured “I Kissed a Girl,” which made history as the first overtly LGBTQ+ song to reach the Billboard Top 20. The album also included the popular track “Supermodel,” which became a memorable part of the Clueless soundtrack.
Throughout her career, Sobule’s lyrics often tackled challenging subjects such as the death penalty, mental health, consumerism, and political issues, making her not just an entertainer but also a vocal advocate for change. Her work resonated with audiences seeking both entertainment and a response to pressing societal issues.
At the time of her passing, Sobule was in the midst of creating her autobiographical musical, Fck 7th Grade,* which was lauded by critics and even received a nomination for a Drama Desk award. An original cast recording is slated for release on June 6, along with a commemorative vinyl set to celebrate the 30th anniversary of her music, featuring iconic tracks like “I Kissed a Girl” and “Supermodel.”
Ken Hertz, Sobule’s longtime attorney and friend, reflected on their close bond, stating, “Jill wasn’t just a client; she was family. She was present for every special occasion in our lives, even performing at family events.” His words highlight the deep connections she forged with those around her, both personally and professionally.
Sobule was scheduled to perform in her hometown of Denver at a concert that would showcase songs from her upcoming musical. In light of her untimely death, plans for an informal memorial are set to take place this summer, providing an opportunity for fans and friends to celebrate her life and achievements.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, as well as her nephews Ian, Matthew, and Robert, who is married to Irina. Sobule will be remembered not just for her music but for the powerful messages woven throughout her work and her commitment to advocacy and friendship.