Jill Sobule, the groundbreaking singer-songwriter known for her 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl,” has tragically passed away at the age of 66. Her death occurred on the morning of May 1, 2025, following a devastating house fire at her residence in Woodbury, Minnesota. The loss of Sobule marks a deeply emotional moment for the music world, especially for those who admired her bold spirit and fearless storytelling through song.
Sobule’s publicist confirmed that the fire took place early Thursday morning. Local authorities in Woodbury are currently investigating the cause of the fire that took her life. Her death has left fans and peers stunned, especially given that she was just weeks away from releasing two major projects. One of them was a 30th anniversary reissue of her self-titled breakthrough album originally released by Atlantic Records, an album that helped define her legacy.
Though Sobule never achieved mainstream superstardom, she was revered within music circles as one of the most underappreciated talents of the 1990s. With a career spanning over 30 years, she was a pioneer in every sense—one who used her voice to address weighty and often controversial issues, including the death penalty, eating disorders like anorexia, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her songs were never just catchy—they were layered, poignant, and often deeply personal.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Sobule carved a unique space for herself in the music industry. She wasn’t simply another voice in a decade crowded with pop acts—she was a storyteller unafraid to push boundaries. Early in her career, she signed with MCA Records in 1990 and released an album produced by the legendary Todd Rundgren. Despite the pedigree, the album didn’t find commercial success, and the label quickly dropped her. That experience led to a difficult chapter marked by rejection and creative disillusionment, a period she would later reflect on as both painful and formative.
But Jill Sobule was not one to give up easily. Her real breakthrough came in 1995 when she released “I Kissed a Girl,” a song that was playful yet sincere, witty yet emotionally resonant. At a time when mainstream music rarely included LGBTQ+ narratives, Sobule’s song was revolutionary. It climbed to No. 20 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart, making it the first openly LGBTQ-themed single to break into the mainstream. The track spoke honestly about same-sex attraction with humor and vulnerability—qualities that came to define her artistry.
The accompanying music video added to the song’s impact. It featured the famously handsome Italian model Fabio as Sobule’s clueless boyfriend, adding a layer of irony that made the video a hit on MTV. Sobule’s ability to mix humor with emotional insight set her apart. Reflecting on the song in an interview with Knight-Ridder Newspapers, she said, “I wanted to write about a first kiss. If I was going to do it with a boy, I’d be talking from a preteen or a 12- or 13-year-old point of view. With this, I could talk about it from any age, which I thought was really intriguing.”
Later that same year, her satirical single “Supermodel” was featured in the teen comedy film Clueless, further cementing her role in 1990s pop culture. This exposure introduced her to a broader audience and showcased her ability to satirize beauty culture and societal expectations with sharp wit and catchy melodies.
Over the course of her career, Sobule released eight full-length studio albums, four EPs, and a greatest hits compilation. Her sound, often categorized as folk-pop, was notable for its clever lyricism and character-driven storytelling. Critics frequently compared her to the great singer-songwriters of the 1970s, but she brought a modern, often irreverent, edge to her work. Her songs were populated with vivid characters, honest confessions, and social commentary, offering listeners both entertainment and reflection.
John Porter, her longtime manager, released a heartfelt statement following the news of her passing. “Jill was a force of nature,” he said. “She was a passionate human rights advocate, and her music is woven into the fabric of our culture. I hope her music, memory, and legacy continue to live on and inspire others.” His words echo the sentiments of many who saw Sobule not only as a musician but as a voice for authenticity and justice.
Sobule is survived by her brother, sister-in-law, nephews, cousins, and a close-knit group of lifelong friends. CNN reported that her family is devastated by the loss but is grateful for the outpouring of love and support from fans and peers alike. Her family has requested privacy during this time and has expressed intentions to honor her legacy in the coming months.
Throughout her life, Jill Sobule remained unapologetically herself. Whether she was performing on a large stage or in an intimate venue, she brought a raw sincerity to every lyric and melody. Her music encouraged others to embrace their truth, no matter how unconventional. She had an uncanny ability to make listeners laugh, cry, and think—sometimes all in the same song. Her willingness to tackle difficult subjects without losing her sense of humor made her music timeless.
Jill Sobule didn’t just write songs—she wrote life stories. She gave a voice to those who felt unseen and made people feel a little less alone. In a world that often rewards conformity, she chose courage, compassion, and creativity. Her impact will be felt long after the final note fades. Rest in peace, Jill. Your voice and vision will never be forgotten.
