Jill Sobule, Singer of ‘I Kissed a Girl’ and ‘Supermodel,’ Dies at 66 in House Fire
Wafric News | May 3, 2025
Jill Sobule, the bold and influential singer-songwriter whose songs helped shape the pop culture landscape of the 1990s, has died at the age of 66 following a tragic house fire in Woodbury, Minnesota.
The devastating fire broke out early Thursday morning, with emergency responders arriving to find the home fully engulfed in flames. One person managed to escape, but Sobule, according to initial reports, did not. Authorities say the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Sobule became a pioneer in the music world with her 1995 breakthrough single, “I Kissed a Girl”, widely recognized as the first openly LGBTQ-themed song to chart in the Billboard Top 20. Her fearless storytelling and catchy melodies resonated with audiences worldwide, helping to create space for queer voices in mainstream pop long before it was fashionable to do so.
Another of her hits, “Supermodel,” earned iconic status when it was featured in the cult classic film “Clueless,” launching Sobule into international recognition and making her a defining voice of a generation.
Sobule’s manager, John Porter, described her as “a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture,” adding that her memory and legacy “will continue to inspire others around the world.”
Over her 30-year career, Sobule released 12 albums, covering deeply personal and political themes—from the death penalty to body image and LGBTQ+ identity. Her work was known not only for its emotional resonance but also for its unfiltered honesty. She collaborated and performed with music legends like Neil Young, Cyndi Lauper, and Tom Morello.
Her final album, “Nostalgia Kills,” was released in 2018 after a long break from the studio. Speaking to Billboard at the time, Sobule reflected on rediscovering her creative spark: “I started loving music again… loving writing and the original spirit of why I did this in the first place.”
Sobule remained active in the music scene up until her final days, with performances scheduled across the United States — including shows planned in Colorado this weekend.
Plans for a public memorial service are underway, with her family and PR team promising a celebration of her music and activism later this year.
Sobule is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, as well as nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of beloved friends and fans across the globe.
As the world reflects on the legacy she leaves behind, Jill Sobule’s voice will continue to echo — not just through her songs, but in the courage and authenticity she gave to others.
By WafricNews Desk.
By WafricNews Desk.
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