Musician Jill Sobule Dies in House Fire
Jill Sobule, singer-songwriter, died at age 66 in a tragic house fire. Born in Denver in 1959, Sobule rose to fame in the 1990s with her bold and witty music.
Her 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl” was the first openly gay-themed song to reach the Billboard Top 20, breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ voices. She also gained recognition for “Supermodel,” featured in the 1995 film Clueless.
Sobule’s career spanned over 30 years, with 12 albums tackling issues like the death penalty, anorexia, and human rights. Known for her activism, she used her music to challenge social norms.
Sobule was a pioneer in crowdfunding, empowering artists to release music independently. Her recent project, the autobiographical musical Fck 7th Grade*, earned a 2023 Drama Desk nomination. Friends and fans remember her as a vibrant, kind, and funny soul who touched countless lives.
Tragic Fire in Minnesota
The fire that claimed Sobule’s life occurred early Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Woodbury, a suburb of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Firefighters responded to a call at around 5:30 a.m., finding the house fully engulfed in flames.
Sobule’s body was discovered inside the home, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. The blaze was intense, leaving little chance for escape.
Sobule had been in Minneapolis, possibly preparing for a scheduled performance in her hometown of Denver the next day.
The venue, Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theater, canceled the show and planned a memorial gathering instead. The fire’s sudden and devastating nature has left her family, friends, and fans in shock.
Investigation Underway
Authorities in Woodbury are investigating the cause of the fire, but details remain unclear. Police and fire officials are working to determine how the blaze started.
Early reports suggest it may have been accidental, but no official cause has been confirmed. The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the Lakeview ambulance and fire departments from nearby areas like Lake Elmo and Maplewood.
Sobule’s family has not released statements about the incident, and the public awaits further updates. The uncertainty surrounding the fire adds to the tragedy, as the music community mourns the loss of a beloved figure.
Sobule’s Work and Lasting Impact
Jill Sobule’s music was fearless, blending humor with raw honesty. Her 1990 debut album, Things Here Are Different, produced by Todd Rundgren, introduced her unique voice.
Songs like “I Kissed a Girl” and “Supermodel” became cultural touchstones, resonating with audiences worldwide. Her work inspired countless artists, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, by normalizing diverse identities.
Sobule’s activism shone through her lyrics, addressing tough topics with grace. She wrote for theater and TV, including the theme for Nickelodeon’s Unfabulous. Her innovative use of crowdfunding paved the way for independent artists.
Tributes from figures like actress Carrie Coon and musician Lloyd Cole highlight her warmth and brilliance. Sobule’s manager, John Porter, said her music “is woven into our culture.” Her legacy lives on through her songs and the lives she touched.
Sobule is survived by her brother James, sister-in-law Mary Ellen, and nephews Ian, Matthew, and Robert. Her death is a profound loss, but her groundbreaking work continues to inspire.
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