MINNEAPOLIS, USA – Jill Sobule, the American singer and songwriter best known for her 1995 hit I Kissed a Girl, has died in a house fire in Minneapolis, according to her publicist. She was 66 years old.
Sobule was praised for being one of the first openly gay artists to reach the Billboard Top 20. Her songs often spoke about real-life issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, eating disorders, and the death penalty. She also wrote the popular song Supermodel, featured in the hit teen movie Clueless.
She was expected to perform this Friday in her hometown of Denver to present songs from her new stage musical. Instead, a free memorial gathering will be held to honor her life and music.
Born in 1959, Jill Sobule’s career lasted over 30 years. She was also a trailblazer in crowdfunding, raising money directly from fans to release new albums. Her music appeared in TV shows and movies, and she even wrote the theme song for Nickelodeon’s Unfabulous.
Tributes from Around the World
Many artists and fans shared their grief on social media. British singer Lloyd Cole said, “We loved her. She loved us.” Actress Carrie Coon called her death “heartbreaking,” while Canadian music expert Eric Alper said Sobule “paved the way with heart, humour, and honesty.”
Her manager, John Porter, said, “I lost a client and a friend today. Jill was a force of nature and a true advocate for human rights. I hope her music and memory continue to inspire others.”
Police are still investigating what caused the fire in the Minneapolis suburb of Woodbury, where Sobule was found.
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