Jill Sobule, the award-winning singer-songwriter renowned for her clever and heartfelt lyrics, tragically passed away at the age of 66 in a house fire on Thursday. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by her publicist, David Elkin, who shared the details in an email later that afternoon. The cause of the fire, which occurred in Woodbury, Minnesota, remains under investigation.
Throughout her illustrious career, Jill Sobule was celebrated as a force of nature and a fierce human rights advocate. Her music resonated deeply within the cultural landscape, often addressing critical issues such as the death penalty, anorexia nervosa, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ matters. "Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture," said John Porter, her manager, in a heartfelt statement. "I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client & a friend today. I hope her music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others."
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Sobule released a total of 12 albums. Her debut album, “Things Here Are Different,” dropped in 1990, but it was her 1995 hit singles, “Supermodel” from the movie “Clueless” and “I Kissed A Girl,” that catapulted her into the spotlight. Despite facing censorship—her song “I Kissed A Girl” was banned on several southern radio stations—it reached the Billboard Top 20, showcasing her bold approach to songwriting.
In addition to her musical accomplishments, Sobule starred in an autobiographical off-Broadway musical that premiered at the Wild Project in New York in 2022. This production showcased her life stories and included original songs that reflected her unique experiences.
Jill Sobule was known for her proactive approach to her music career. In 2008, after facing the challenges of being dropped by two major record labels and witnessing two indie labels go bankrupt, she took matters into her own hands. By fundraising tens of thousands of dollars from her devoted fans, she successfully produced a new album. "The old kind of paradigm, where you’ve always waited for other people to do things... This is so great. I want to do everything like this,” she remarked at the time, highlighting her determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
While Sobule was scheduled to perform in Denver on Friday night, plans have shifted to an informal gathering hosted by her friend Ron Bostwick from 105.5 The Colorado Sound. Attendees are invited to share stories and songs in her honor. A formal memorial celebrating her remarkable life and enduring legacy is slated to take place later this summer. Craig Grossman, her booking agent, expressed the sentiment felt by many: “No one made me laugh more. Her spirit and energy shall be greatly missed within the music community and beyond.”
Born in Denver, Colorado, on January 16, 1959, Sobule described her younger self as a shy child who preferred observing the world to participating in it. Throughout her career, she played dozens of shows each year, often recalling her live performances as vulnerable experiences. Known for her spontaneous approach to performances, she often did not have a set list and embraced the unpredictability of each show.
Over the years, Sobule graced the stage with numerous music icons, including Neil Young, Billy Bragg, and Cyndi Lauper. She even had the honor of inducting Neil Diamond into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. In a memorable appearance, she performed as herself in an episode of “The Simpsons” in 2019.
In a recent interview with The Associated Press in 2023, Sobule reflected on her career, saying, “In a good way, I feel like I’m still a rookie. There’s so much more to do, and I haven’t done my best yet.” Her spirit of continuous growth and creativity will undoubtedly live on through her music and the countless lives she touched.
Jill Sobule is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, along with her beloved nephews and cousins. Her remarkable contributions to music and advocacy will be cherished and remembered by fans and artists alike.
