This year’s Neustadt JAAMM Festival at the Mizel Arts and Culture Center invites the community to gather for a heartfelt evening celebrating the extraordinary life and career of singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year. A Denver native who grew up at the JCC, Sobule left a lasting mark on the music world with her witty lyrics, fearless storytelling, and trailblazing spirit. 

Born and raised in Denver, Jill attended the JCC as a child before pursuing her dream of becoming a musician. Known for her clever wordplay and ability to balance humor with raw vulnerability, she built a career that defied easy categorization. She first burst onto the national scene with her 1995 hit “I Kissed a Girl”, a groundbreaking song that pushed boundaries in pop culture and helped open new conversations about identity and love. Over the years, Jill released more than a dozen albums, collaborated with artists ranging from Warren Zevon to Don Was, and built a devoted fanbase that cherished her authenticity as much as her artistry. 

Her music tackled politics, history, love, and everyday absurdities, often with a wink and a smile. From the anthemic “Supermodel” (featured in the film Clueless) to her deeply personal stage project “F*ck7thGrade”, Sobule continually reinvented herself, proving that meaningful songwriting could be as entertaining as it was thought-provoking. Beyond her music, Jill was known for her warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit, traits that made her both a friend to fellow musicians and an inspiration to fans around the world. 

The Neustadt JAAMM Festival tribute concert will honor her legacy through live performances, video clips, and personal stories, bringing together artists and audiences to remember Jill not only as a star but as a beloved member of Denver’s own community. Ron Bostwick of 105.5 The Colorado Sound will emcee the evening, which will feature appearances by Tony Trischka, Hal Aqua, Carla Sciaky, Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Rabbi Joe Black, and Lannie Garrett.  

Much more than a concert, this gathering will be a celebration of Jill’s roots, her fearless creativity, and the songs that continue to inspire. It is an opportunity to honor her life, reflect on her impact, and rejoice in the music she left behind.