Tribute to Jill Sobule: Celebrated Musician Tragically Lost in Minneapolis House Fire

Jill Sobule, a notable American songwriter, has tragically passed away in a house fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was 66 years old. Sobule was known for her hit song "I Kissed a Girl," hailed as one of the first openly-gay themed tracks to enter the Billboard Top 20. She also gained recognition for her catchy anthem "Supermodel," featured in the beloved 1995 film Clueless.

Sobule was set to perform in Denver, Colorado, showcasing songs from her autobiographical musical. In light of her passing, fans will gather to honor her legacy with a special free event.

Born in 1959, Sobule’s music career spanned over three decades. She bravely tackled tough issues like the death penalty, anorexia, and LGBTQ+ rights in her songs. Her celebrated 1995 self-titled album features standout tracks, including "Supermodel" and "I Kissed a Girl." Interestingly, the latter regained attention when Katy Perry released a song with the same name in 2008.

Sobule was also a pioneer in using crowdfunding to release albums at a time when this was still a novel concept. She wrote music for theater and television, creating the theme for Nickelodeon’s Unfabulous.

John Porter, her manager, praised Sobule as a "force of nature" and a dedicated human rights advocate. He expressed deep sadness over losing a friend and client, wishing for her music and memory to continue inspiring others.

Reactions have flooded social media. Music correspondent Eric Alper noted Sobule’s ability to change conversations about identity with "heart, humor, and honesty." American actress Carrie Coon shared her heartbreak, calling Sobule "so special."

As investigations into the fire continue, it’s clear that Sobule’s impact on music and culture will be remembered for years to come. Her fearless approach opened doors for many who followed, marking her as a true trailblazer in the music industry.

For more on her influential career, you can check out additional details on Billboard.

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