Jill Sobule, Iconic Singer-Songwriter, Passes Away at 66
Date: October 2023
Tragic Incident
Renowned singer and songwriter Jill Sobule tragically died on Thursday morning in a house fire in Woodbury, Minnesota. She was 66 years old. The Public Safety Department reported that firefighters arrived at the scene around 5:30 a.m. to find a house engulfed in flames, where they discovered the body of a woman in her 60s inside.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Upcoming Performances and Legacy
At the time of her passing, Sobule was gearing up for a performance of her one-woman musical, F*ck7thGrade, in her hometown of Denver. She was staying with friends in Minnesota for rehearsal purposes. In lieu of a formal service, a gathering in her honor is set to take place in Denver.
Musical Journey
Jill Sobule gained fame in the 1990s with her hit songs “Supermodel” and “I Kissed a Girl,” the latter becoming a gay anthem. Sobule’s self-titled 1995 album propelled her into the spotlight and featured “I Kissed a Girl,” which recounts the experience of a woman kissing her friend—a topic that was often taboo in the music industry at the time.
In her own words, Sobule humorously reflected on her career, saying, “People call me a one-hit wonder… I’m a two-hit wonder!” Her subsequent albums, praised for their eclectic style, did not achieve the same commercial success, yet they continued to resonate with critics.
Impact on LGBTQ Representation
Sobule’s music often tackled themes of queerness, personal identity, and social issues. Her advocacy spanned various topics, showcasing her commitment to raising awareness about mental health, LGBTQ rights, and more. Sarah Kate Ellis, president of GLAAD, emphasized her significance, stating, “She literally created a path for queer people and women in music.”
Reflections and Future Contributions
In her 2022 interview with The New York Times, Sobule highlighted her desire to connect with outcasts through her work. “We wanted to make sure that the show wasn’t just for people interested in my career… It’s kind of this universal story of a weirdo growing up,” she explained.
