Legendary singer and songwriter Jill Sobule tragically passed away in a house fire in Minneapolis. The 66-year-old artist, best known for her 1995 single “I Kissed A Girl,” was unable to escape the flames that engulfed her home early Thursday morning.
First responders arrived to find the property already consumed by the fire, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the blaze. Sobule’s death comes as a shock to the music industry and her fans, who remember her for her unique music style and outspoken personality.
Sobule famously clashed with pop star Katy Perry over the title of their respective songs, both named “I Kissed A Girl.” The feud escalated when Sobule accused Perry of stealing the title and called her derogatory names in the media. Despite the controversy, Sobule’s music continued to resonate with her dedicated fan base.
In addition to her music career, Sobule also had a song featured in the iconic 1995 film “Clueless.” Her song “I Kissed A Girl” reached number 20 on the U.S. Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, solidifying her as a trailblazer for LGBTQ-themed music.
Sobule was scheduled to perform at Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theater in Denver, Colorado, her birthplace, before her untimely death. Her manager, John Porter, paid tribute to her legacy as a “force of nature” and a passionate advocate for human rights.
Her attorney, Ken Hertz, fondly remembered Sobule as not just a client, but a beloved member of his family. Sobule is survived by her brother James Sobule, his wife Mary Ellen, and her nephews Ian Matthew and Robert.
A formal memorial to celebrate Sobule’s life and work is planned for this summer, ensuring that her music, memory, and legacy continue to inspire others. Despite her passing, Jill Sobule’s impact on the music industry will always be remembered.
