Singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, aged 66, tragically died in a house fire in Minneapolis on May 1, 2025, while staying with friends who also lost their home and dogs. Known for her trailblazing song 'I Kissed a Girl,' which was the first openly gay track to reach the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, Sobule was not only a music icon but also a passionate human rights advocate. Her manager, John Porter, expressed deep sorrow at losing both a client and friend, highlighting her cultural impact and hoping her legacy will continue to inspire. The loss has sent waves of grief through her circle of loved ones and the broader community who cherished her contributions to music and advocacy. Condolences are extended to Sobule's family and friends during this difficult time as they mourn her passing and celebrate her lasting influence.

Jill Sobule, acclaimed singer-songwriter, passed away at the age of 66 due to a house fire in Minneapolis on May 1, 2025, while staying with friends who also lost their home and pets in the tragedy.

Sobule was renowned for her 1995 hit 'I Kissed a Girl,' which was groundbreaking as the first openly gay-themed song to chart in the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a significant cultural milestone.

Her manager, John Porter, shared a heartfelt statement about losing not just a client but a dear friend, emphasizing Sobule's vibrant personality and her unwavering commitment to human rights advocacy.

Sobule's music and activism have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, and her manager hopes her legacy and memory will continue to inspire future generations.

The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and loved ones, who remember her not only for her musical contributions but also for her role as a force of nature within the human rights community.

Singer-songwriter Jill Sobule has sadly passed away.

The “I Kissed a Girl” singer died on Thursday morning (May 1) at the age of 66 in a house fire in Minneapolis.

Jill‘s manager told The Hollywood Reporter that she was staying with friends at the time of the fire and the friends “lost Jill, their house and their dogs.”

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“Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture. I was having so much fun working with her,” the manager, John Porter, shared in a statement. “I lost a client and a friend today. I hope her music, memory and legacy continue to live on and inspire others.”

Jill‘s song “I Kissed a Girl” is known to be the first openly gay track to chart in the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.

We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to Jill‘s loved ones during this difficult time.