Singer Jill Sobule passed away on Thursday in a house fire in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota, at 66, according to her agent who spoke with TMZ. Sobule was reportedly at a friend’s home at the time of the incident.
Her manager, John Porter, shared the news with TMZ, describing her as “a force of nature and human rights advocate” whose music has become part of our culture. She is best known for her hit song from 1995, “I Kissed a Girl.”
Although details about the fire remain unclear, Sobule had a remarkable career spanning three decades, during which she released 12 albums. Some of her notable tracks include “Supermodel” from the movie “Clueless” and the song “Fuck 7th Grade.”
Porter expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client & a friend today. I hope her music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others.”
Sobule’s long-time lawyer, Ken Hertz, also shared heartfelt remarks with Variety, saying, “Jill wasn’t just a client. She was family to us.” He recalled how she was present for many important moments in their lives and even performed at family events.
She was scheduled to perform on May 2 at Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theater in her hometown of Denver. Instead, her friend Ron Bostwick will host a tribute event in her honor, as reported by Variety. A formal memorial to celebrate her life is planned for the summer.
Sobule is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, two nephews, Ian Matthew and Robert, along with Robert’s spouse Irina, as well as cousins, friends, and her devoted fans.
