Jill Sobule, the acclaimed singer-songwriter renowned for her 1995 hit "I Kissed a Girl," tragically died at the age of 66 in a house fire in Woodbury, Minnesota, on May 1, 2025. Her death was confirmed by her publicist, David Elkin. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Born on January 16, 1959, in Denver, Colorado, Sobule emerged as a distinctive voice in the 1990s music scene. Her song "I Kissed a Girl" broke ground as one of the first openly LGBTQ+ themed songs to reach the Billboard Top 20, offering a candid portrayal of same-sex attraction. Another notable track, "Supermodel," gained popularity through its inclusion in the film "Clueless." Over her three-decade career, Sobule released 12 albums, addressing topics ranging from anorexia and the death penalty to reproductive rights and adolescent struggles. Her storytelling combined wit and poignancy, resonating with a diverse audience. In 2008, facing challenges with record labels, she turned to crowdfunding, raising significant funds from fans to produce her album "California Years," showcasing her innovative approach to music production.
Sobule also ventured into musical theater with her autobiographical show titled "Seventh Grade," which premiered in New York in 2022 and received a Drama Desk nomination. A cast recording of the musical is set for release next month, alongside a reissue of her self-titled album.
Known for her engaging live performances, Sobule often performed without a set list, creating intimate experiences for her audiences. She collaborated with artists like Neil Young, Billy Bragg, and Cyndi Lauper, and even appeared on an episode of "The Simpsons" in 2019.
Sobule was scheduled to perform in Denver on May 2, 2025. In light of her passing, an informal gathering will be held at the venue, allowing fans and friends to share memories and songs in her honor. A formal memorial service is planned for later this summer.
She is survived by her brother, James Sobule, sister-in-law Mary Ellen, and their children. Her contributions to music and advocacy have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless individuals through her art and activism.
