Sass Jordan, the rock vocalist from Montreal whose career lasted almost forty years, has passed away at the age of 65.
According to a statement from family representative Eric Alper, Jordan died on Friday, surrounded by her loved ones. The specific cause of her death has not been disclosed.
The statement referred to Jordan as an extraordinary force of nature and an invaluable source of light and happiness.
Jordan’s first album, Tell Somebody, debuted in 1988, and she received the Juno Award for most promising female vocalist in 1989. Her second album, Racine, released in 1992, featured popular tracks like Make You a Believer.
She received multiple nominations for a Juno Award for best female vocalist and served as a judge throughout all six seasons of the reality TV competition Canadian Idol.
‘Really belt out the blues’
Born on December 23, 1960, in Birmingham, England, Jordan grew up in Montreal, as stated in the announcement.
Geoff Kulawick, the former president of Stony Plain Records, which published Jordan’s last two albums, described her as “bold, beautiful and courageous.”
Jordan recorded her 2020 album, Rebel Moon Blues, and her 2022 release, Bitches Blues, with her husband Derek Sharp while affiliated with Stony Plain.
Kulawick mentioned that he was a fan of Jordan even prior to her signing with his label, and he encouraged her to “really belt out the blues” on her final two albums.
“Her voice was distinctive, and her ability to connect on an emotional level… garnered her numerous fans,” he commented.
An inspiration to all young performers
Canadian producer and songwriter Derek Downham stated they “really connected” when they first met at Massey Hall in Toronto a few years back.
“She was a beacon of light and a truly funny person,” Downham remarked, noting he played drums alongside Jordan last December at singer-songwriter Andy Kim’s annual holiday charity event in Montreal.
“The greatest sorrow for me is that I won’t experience that laugh again.”
Sass Jordan performing at the 1992 Big Valley Jamboree. (CBC)
As one of the few women in rock during her early career, Jordan created opportunities for other women in a predominantly male genre, he noted.
“She emerged during a time when it wasn’t easy,” he said. “It was encouraging to witness a strong female artist break through and truly demonstrate how it’s done.”
Downham added that Jordan served as an inspiration for aspiring performers.
“I hope people remember her for paving the way and that she led with love every single time.”