Jill Sobule, the influential singer, songwriter, and activist known for her honest lyrics and groundbreaking hits, has tragically passed away at the age of 66 in a residential fire. The news of her sudden death has led to the cancellation of her final scheduled performance in Denver.
Sobule was set to perform on Thursday evening at Denver’s Swallow Hill Music. In light of her passing, the venue announced a free tribute gathering in her honor instead, from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. All fans and friends are welcome to attend. The official statement on Sobule’s website reads:
“Jill was a beloved member of the Swallow Hill community, and we know she will be sorely missed. Instead of the concert that was planned for tomorrow night, we will host a free, informal gathering in Jill’s honor at Swallow Hill, from 7:30 – 9:00 PM.”
Ron Bostwick of 105.5 The Colorado Sound, who had helped organize Sobule’s tours in Colorado, will lead the tribute session, offering friends and fans an opportunity to share memories of her life and work.
Sobule made music history with her 1995 hit I Kissed a Girl, recognized as the first openly gay-themed song to break into the Billboard Top 20 charts. Over her prolific career, she released more than a dozen albums, often addressing LGBTQ+ issues, mental health, politics, and social justice with sharp wit and candor. Her alt-rock anthem Supermodel, featured in the cult classic film Clueless, remains a defining song of a generation.
Those closest to Sobule—including her agent, manager, and longtime attorney—remember her for her kindness, sharp humor, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
A Denver native, Jill Sobule maintained a strong bond with her hometown music scene and was a vocal advocate for innovative business models supporting independent artists.
She is survived by her brother and his family.
Fans and the music community will come together to celebrate Sobule’s enduring legacy in an informal tribute ahead of a formal memorial to be arranged in the coming weeks.