“I Kissed a Girl” Singer Dies in House Fire

Exploring a career in the music industry since the 1980s, Jill Sobule found success thanks to the hit song “I Kissed A Girl.” Released in May 1995, the song quickly took over the airwaves while landing on the Billboard Hot 100. That same year, Sobule recorded another hit song “Supermodel”, which appeared in the blockbuster Clueless. Sadly, the music industry lost the talented singer/songwriter on May 1st when Sobule passed away due to a house fire. 

Living in Woodbury, Minnesota, Sobule’s house apparently caught fire on the Morning of May 1st. Her manager, John Porter, shared the heartbreaking news about her passing, writing in a statement, “Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture. I was having so much fun working with her.” He continued, “I lost a client and a friend today. I hope her music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others.” 

Tributes Pour In For Singer Jill Sobule

Given Sobule’s impact on the music industry and the LGBTQ+ community, many took a moment to remember the songwriter. Writer and actress Sarah Thyre, from Stranger with Candy, took a moment to celebrate the legacy of Sobule. Posting a picture of her on Instagram, she wrote, “This one hits hard. Jill Sobule was an amazing, generous artist who lent her time and talent to abortion rights and other progressive causes. She ALWAYS showed up and showed out.”

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Thyre also discussed the impact Sobule had on the industry when releasing “I Kissed a Girl.” “Above all, she was just lovely and playful and earnest and talented. Her song “I kissed a girl” blew the doors open for queer folk. This is so unbearably sad. Goodbye, sweet Jill. So grateful I got to be a fan and a friend.”

Among the others who offered a heartfelt message surrounding Sobule was her agent, Craig Grossman, who told Rolling Stone, “I was fortunate enough to get to know Jill beyond a professional relationship. No one made me laugh more. Her spirit and energy shall be greatly missed within the music community and beyond.”

Although passing away, Sobule’s self-titled album will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a re-release on June 6th. The album featured both “Supermodel” and “I Kissed A Girl.” With countless fans and fellow artists remembering Sobule’s talents, her legacy and contributions to music will never be forgotten.  

(Photo by Debra L Rothenberg/Getty Images)