Jill Sobule, the iconic singer behind the 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl,” has tragically passed away at the age of 66 in a house fire in Woodbury, Minnesota, on May 1, 2025.
Sobule, who made a lasting impact on the music industry with her trailblazing song that broke barriers for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream music, was a beloved figure for her witty and heartfelt songwriting.
Her hit “I Kissed a Girl” was one of the first openly gay-themed songs to break into the Billboard Top 20, cementing her as a key figure in LGBTQ+ music history.
Beyond “I Kissed a Girl,” Sobule’s contribution to the music world was significant. She also gained fame with “Supermodel,” which was featured in the cult classic Clueless.
Her ability to tackle sensitive issues with honesty and humor won her fans from all walks of life.
At the time of her passing, Sobule had been on a mini-tour, performing her autobiographical musical Fck 7th Grade*, which had garnered Drama Desk nominations.
The next performance in Denver has been cancelled, and a community memorial will be held in her honour.
Sobule’s manager, John Porter, described her as a “force of nature” and praised her advocacy for human rights.
The music world has lost a unique voice, but her legacy will live on through her powerful songs and messages of authenticity.
A celebration of Sobule’s life and music is planned for later this year. Her contributions continue to inspire fans and activists alike, reminding us of the power of music to create change.
