Jill Sobule, 'I Kissed a Girl' Singer, Dies at 66 in House Fire
May 2, 2025 — Jill Sobule, the pioneering singer-songwriter behind the 1995 hit "I Kissed a Girl", has died at age 66 following a tragic house fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her representatives confirmed the news on Thursday, May 1.
The beloved artist was scheduled to perform on May 2 at Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theater in Denver, with a show titled “Jill Sobule Presents: Songs From F--k 7th Grade & More.” The event has been canceled, and an informal gathering will be held in her memory, hosted by her friend Ron Bostwick of 105.5 FM.
A Voice That Broke Barriers
Born in Denver in 1959, Jill Sobule made her music debut in 1990 with the album Things Here Are Different. She gained national fame in 1995 with her self-titled album that featured the iconic single "I Kissed a Girl", a trailblazing LGBTQ+ anthem that made it to the Billboard Top 20. That same album included another notable hit, “Supermodel.”
Throughout her career, Sobule stood out not only for her melodic sensibility but also for the bold themes she addressed. Her songs often tackled serious issues such as capital punishment, anorexia, reproductive rights, and political movements like MAGA. She was celebrated as much for her activism as for her art.
Remembered with Love
Her longtime manager John Porter shared a heartfelt statement with Variety: “Jill Sobule was a force of nature and a tireless advocate for human rights. I lost a client and a dear friend. I hope her music and mission will continue to inspire others.”
Ken Hertz, her attorney and close friend, added: “Jill wasn’t just a client. She was family. She was there for every birth, every birthday, and every celebration. She even performed from our living room via Zoom during the pandemic.”
A Lasting Legacy
Jill Sobule leaves behind a powerful body of work and a legacy rooted in courage, empathy, and authenticity. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule; her nephews Ian, Matthew, and Robert; and Robert’s wife, Irina.
Her passing is a deep loss for both the music industry and the wider community of human rights advocates. Her voice—unapologetic and visionary—will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.