MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Music World Mourns the Loss of Jill Sobule, Pioneering Singer-Songwriter and LGBTQ+ Icon
The music world is mourning the tragic and untimely passing of Jill Sobule, a trailblazing singer-songwriter and activist best known for her 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl.” Sobule died early Thursday morning in a devastating house fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was 66 years old. Her representative confirmed the news later that day, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance from fans, fellow artists, and LGBTQ+ advocates across the globe.
Born in Denver, Colorado, in 1959, Jill Sobule’s career spanned over three decades and left an indelible mark on American pop and folk music. With a lyrical style that deftly blended wit, vulnerability, and social commentary, Sobule emerged in the mid-1990s as one of the few openly queer voices in mainstream music—a rarity during a time when the industry was still largely resistant to LGBTQ+ visibility.
Her breakout single, “I Kissed a Girl,” released in 1995, was revolutionary. Long before discussions of sexual fluidity and representation entered the mainstream conversation, Sobule’s song portrayed a same-sex kiss not as sensational or scandalous, but as a moment of genuine self-discovery. The song, accompanied by a quirky and narrative-driven music video, quickly garnered attention on MTV and hit the Billboard Hot 100. More importantly, it sparked dialogue and offered many young LGBTQ+ individuals a rare moment of recognition in pop culture.
Though her commercial success was modest compared to major pop stars, Sobule cultivated a devoted fanbase that cherished her candid storytelling and fearless approach to difficult topics. Her body of work explored themes ranging from mental health and feminism to politics and aging, all delivered with her signature blend of humor and heart.
Beyond her music, Sobule was known for her activism and deep commitment to social justice. She frequently performed at benefits for LGBTQ+ causes, women’s rights, and mental health awareness, and she often used her platform to uplift marginalized voices. She was also an early pioneer of crowdfunding in music, independently funding her 2009 album California Years through fan donations—setting a precedent for independent musicians long before platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter became ubiquitous.
Fans and fellow artists have taken to social media to share tributes, remembering Sobule not only for her musical talent but also for her warmth, generosity, and trailblazing spirit.
“She was ahead of her time,” tweeted singer Brandi Carlile. “Jill Sobule walked so many of us could run. I wouldn’t be here without her music and courage.”
Indigo Girls posted on Instagram, writing, “Jill was a warrior with a guitar, and her voice—both literal and metaphorical—made the world a better place for queer people and anyone who ever felt like an outsider.”
The circumstances surrounding the fire are still under investigation by Minneapolis fire officials. No other injuries have been reported at this time. Sobule had recently relocated to Minneapolis, drawn by the city’s vibrant music scene and progressive community.
While the world has lost a unique voice, Jill Sobule’s influence continues to echo. Her work opened doors, started conversations, and inspired generations of musicians and fans alike to embrace their true selves.
In a 2015 interview reflecting on her career, Sobule once said: “I never thought of myself as a pop star. I just wanted to tell stories that meant something. If someone listened and felt a little less alone, then I did my job.”
Indeed, Jill Sobule did her job—with grace, grit, and a guitar that told the truth.
Plans for a public memorial and tribute concert are expected to be announced in the coming days.