Singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, who had a hit with I Kissed a Girl, dead after house fire
Jill Sobule, the celebrated singer-songwriter known for her witty and poignant lyrics, tragically passed away in a house fire at the age of 66. The news was confirmed by her publicist, David Elkin, though the cause of the fire in Woodbury, Minn., remains unclear.
Sobule, a true force of nature and advocate for human rights, left a lasting impact on the music industry with her thought-provoking songs that tackled a wide range of complex issues. Over her more than three-decade-long career, she released 12 albums that delved into topics such as the death penalty, anorexia nervosa, reproduction, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Her musical journey began with the release of her first album, “Things Here Are Different,” in 1990. However, it was her hit singles “Supermodel” and “I Kissed A Girl,” released five years later, that catapulted her into the spotlight. Despite facing bans on several radio stations, “I Kissed A Girl” managed to climb into the Billboard Top 20, with a playful music video featuring model Fabio as Sobule’s love interest.
A true pioneer in the industry, Sobule often took control of her career by crowd-funding her albums after facing setbacks with major record labels. In 2008, she successfully raised funds from her fans to produce a new album, showcasing a new paradigm of artist empowerment.
Scheduled to perform in Denver, Sobule’s upcoming concert will now be transformed into a tribute event hosted by her friend Ron Bostwick, where attendees can share stories and songs in her memory. A formal memorial to honor her life and legacy is planned for later this summer.
Throughout her career, Sobule collaborated with iconic artists such as Neil Young, Billy Bragg, and Cyndi Lauper, and even made appearances on popular TV shows like “West Wing” and “Treme.” She also starred in an autobiographical off-Broadway musical that premiered in 2022, showcasing her life through songs and stories.
Despite her untimely passing, Sobule’s spirit and energy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, as well as her nephews and cousins.
The music community and beyond mourn the loss of Jill Sobule, a true trailblazer whose legacy will undoubtedly live on through her timeless music and impactful contributions to the industry.
