Iconic Musician Jill Sobule Passes Away in Devastating House Fire

Jill Sobule, celebrated for her trailblazing contributions to music, including the hit "I Kissed a Girl," has died in a house fire. Tributes flood in as investigations into the cause of the fire begin.

Jill Sobule, a groundbreaking American musician whose hit song "I Kissed a Girl" is acknowledged as the first track with openly-gay themes to penetrate the Billboard Top 20, tragically died in a house fire in Minneapolis, as confirmed by her publicist. The talented artist, renowned for her satirical anthem "Supermodel," featured in the iconic 1995 coming-of-age film "Clueless," was 66 years old. Sobule had plans to perform in her hometown of Denver on Friday, showcasing songs from her autobiographical stage musical. In her honor, a free gathering will now be organized.

Social media has erupted with tributes, including a heartfelt message from English musician Lloyd Cole, who expressed, "I'm really too numb to post much of anything. We loved her. She loved us." Born in 1959, Sobule's prolific career spanned three decades, tackling significant issues such as the death penalty, anorexia, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her most renowned work came from her self-titled 1995 album, home to hits like "Supermodel" and "I Kissed a Girl," which gained renewed attention in 2008 following Katy Perry's release of a different single under the same title.

Sobule was a trailblazer in using crowdfunding for album releases and had an impressive portfolio that included music for stage and television, notably composing the theme for the Nickelodeon show "Unfabulous." Her manager, John Porter, described her as a "force of nature and human rights advocate" whose music resonated deeply. He lamented the loss of both a client and a friend, expressing hope that her music, memory, and legacy would continue to inspire others.

Canadian music correspondent Eric Alper noted that Sobule "paved the way with heart, humour, and honesty," emphasizing her impact as the first openly gay artist to break into the Billboard Top 20 with songs that transformed both the musical landscape and the broader conversation on LGBTQ+ issues. Actress Carrie Coon also shared her heartbreak over the news, commenting on Sobule's uniqueness and significance. As the investigation into the cause of the fire, which occurred in the suburb of Woodbury, unfolds, the music world mourns the loss of a true icon.