Jill Sobule, the trailblazing singer-songwriter best known for her 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl,” was tragically killed in a house fire Thursday in Woodbury, Minnesota.
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Her representative confirmed the news of her passing to Variety. She was 66 years old.
“Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture,” John Porter, her manager, said in a statement to the outlet. “I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client and a friend today.”
Porter added, “I hope her music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others.”
Over her three-decade-long career, Sobule has released 12 albums exploring profound and complex themes, including the death penalty, eating disorders, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Her debut album, Things Here Are Different, came out in 1990, per the Associated Press. Five years later, she gained widespread recognition with two hit singles: “Supermodel,” featured in the iconic film Clueless, and “I Kissed A Girl,” which, despite being banned by several southern radio stations, climbed into the Billboard Top 20.
RIP #JillSobule 💔 the singer-songwriter tragically died in a house fire Thursday. She was just 66.
— Basement Bygones (@basementbygones) May 2, 2025
She was best known for her hits "I Kissed a Girl," "Supermodel" from "Clueless," and "Rock Me to Sleep."
Rest in peace, Jill. You're a queer icon and were ahead of your time 🙏 pic.twitter.com/aqtxvNRdH2
Her songwriting offered a unique LGBTQ+ perspective on the coming-of-age story. It was rare among artists of her time to address these themes with similar openness.
Sobule’s autobiographical musical, F– 7th Grade, which earned a Drama Desk nomination, has enjoyed four theatrical runs over the past three years. The production explores the intense challenges of adolescence, providing a thoughtful look at those important formative years.
Remembering Jill Sobule — the fearless voice behind "I Kissed a Girl" and Clueless’ "Supermodel" — who passed away at 66 in a tragic house fire. Her legacy lives on through music and advocacy. 💔🎶 #JillSobule #IKissedAGirl #Clueless #RIP #MusicLegendpic.twitter.com/juUUjtreJD
— QC TLK NEWS (@QcTlkNews) May 1, 2025
Sobule was set to perform in Denver on Friday night. Instead, her friend Ron Bostwick from 105.5 The Colorado Sound hosted an intimate gathering at the performance space. Attendees were invited to “share a story or song,” according to her publicist.
Jill Sobule Was a Prolific Touring Artist
Born on January 16, 1959, in Denver, Colorado, she has often described herself as a shy child who enjoyed observing more than participating.
Known for her extensive touring schedule, Sobule performed dozens of shows each year. She brought a raw and authentic energy to her live performances. Sobule described these shows as deeply vulnerable experiences, often foregoing a set list and improvising as she went.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of @jillsobule
— Tracy Chapman (@tchapmanonline) May 2, 2025
Let us listen to her music to honor the wonderful singer-songwriter she was. Our hearts go out to her family, friends and fans.
This photo of Jill and Tracy was taken backstage at the 15th Annual Bridge Benefit… pic.twitter.com/MIe2N8RveF
She has shared the stage with legendary artists like Neil Young, Billy Bragg, and Cyndi Lauper. Sobule also had the honor of inducting Neil Diamond into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 2019, she made a memorable appearance on The Simpsons, performing a song as herself.
She is survived by her brother, James Sobule, his wife, Mary Ellen, as well as her nephews and cousins.