THIS HURTS!
It is with profound sadness and disbelief that we learn of the passing of Jill Sobule, the pioneering singer-songwriter whose music resonated deeply with fans and whose advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. Jill tragically passed away on May 1, 2025, in a house fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota, at the age of 66.
🎶 A Musical Legacy That Defied Boundaries
Born in Denver, Colorado, on January 16, 1959, Jill Sobule emerged as a distinctive voice in the 1990s music scene. Her 1995 hit single, “I Kissed a Girl,” became an anthem of self-discovery and defiance, challenging societal norms and opening conversations about sexuality in a way few mainstream songs had before. The track’s success was propelled by its candid lyrics and a memorable music video featuring the iconic Fabio Lanzoni. Additionally, her song “Supermodel” was featured on the soundtrack of the beloved teen film Clueless, further cementing her place in pop culture.
Throughout her career, Sobule released eight studio albums, including Things Here Are Different (1990), Happy Town (1997), and Pink Pearl (2000). Her music, characterized by its folk-pop sensibilities, often delved into themes of identity, mental health, and societal expectations. Tracks like “Lucy at the Gym” and “Claire” showcased her ability to craft poignant narratives that resonated with listeners on a personal level.
🏳️🌈 A Champion for LGBTQ+ Rights
Beyond her musical achievements, Jill Sobule was a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her openness about her bisexuality and her involvement in various social justice initiatives made her a trailblazer for queer representation in the arts. In 2020, she served as a musician-in-residence at the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice, an LGBTQIA community center, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding.
💔 Tributes Pour In
The news of Sobule’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the music community. Her manager, John Porter, expressed his grief, stating, “Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture. I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client and a friend today.”
Longtime attorney Ken Hertz shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling Sobule’s close relationship with his family: “Jill wasn’t just a client. She was family to us. She showed up for every birth, every birthday, and every holiday. She performed at our daughter’s wedding, and I was her … during the pandemic.
🌟 Remembering Jill Sobule
Jill Sobule’s music and advocacy have left an indelible legacy. Her songs continue to inspire and resonate with fans around the world, and her commitment to social justice serves as a beacon for future generations. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the impact she made and the love she shared through her art and activism.
In the words of Sobule herself, “I hope my music, memory, and legacy continue to live on and … .” (The Sun)