Police launch investigation into I Kissed A Girl singer Jill Souble's death after house fire
Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the untimely death of singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, best known for her groundbreaking hit 'I Kissed a Girl'
The music world is mourning the loss of Jill Sobule, known for her 1995 hit single "I Kissed a Girl", who has tragically died at the age of 66. The singer-songwriter tragically died in a house fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Thursday, May 1, as confirmed by a representative to Variety.
Police in the suburb of Woodbury are now investigating the cause of the fire at the house where Sobule was found, the Star Tribune reported.
Jill was scheduled to perform in Denver on Friday at Swallow Hill Music's Tuft Theater with a show titled "Jill Sobule presents: Songs From F--k 7th Grade and More." In light of her passing, the theater will host an informal gathering led by her friend Ron Bostwick from 105.5 FM. Her manager, John Porter, released a heartfelt statement to the publication, saying: "Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture."
He went on to express his personal loss: "I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client and a friend today. I hope her music, memory, and legacy continue to live on and inspire others."
Sobule's passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her, both personally and professionally. Among them is her booking agent, Craig Grossman, who reflected on the rare connection they shared: '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.'
Her attorney and longtime friend, Ken Hertz, echoed that sentiment, offering a glimpse into the closeness of their bond. 'Jill wasn't just a client. She was family to us. She showed up for every birth, every birthday, and every holiday. She performed at our daughter's wedding, and I was her 'tech' when she performed by Zoom from our living room (while living with us) during the pandemic,' he said.
Born in Denver in 1959, Sobule rose to prominence with her 1990 debut Things Here Are Different. But it was her self-titled 1995 album Jill Sobule that catapulted her into cultural significance.
The release featured 'I Kissed a Girl,' a song that broke ground as one of the earliest mainstream tracks to unapologetically center LGBTQ+ identity, earning a spot on the Billboard Top 20. That same album gave fans the iconic anthem 'Supermodel,' further solidifying her place in pop culture.
Never one to shy away from tough conversations, Sobule embedded activism into her art. Her lyrics tackled everything from reproductive rights to eating disorders, from shoplifting to capital punishment - and she didn't hesitate to critique political movements like MAGA through her work.
She leaves behind her brother James and his wife Mary Ellen, nephews Ian Matthew and Robert, and Robert's wife Irina. A wide circle of cousins and friends also mourn her loss.
A public memorial celebrating her life and artistic legacy is planned for this summer.
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