Sass Jordan, a rock vocalist from Montreal whose career spanned close to four decades, has passed away at the age of 65.
According to a statement from family spokesperson Eric Alper, Jordan passed away on Friday, surrounded by her loved ones. The specific cause of her death has not been disclosed.
The statement referred to Jordan as an unparalleled force of nature and a unique being who radiated light and happiness.
Jordan launched her career with the album Tell Somebody in 1988, winning the Juno Award for the most promising female vocalist the following year. Her sophomore album, Racine, released in 1992, featured popular tracks such as Make You a Believer.
She received multiple nominations for the Juno Award for best female vocalist and served as a judge on all six seasons of the reality music competition Canadian Idol.
‘Really belt out the blues’
Born on December 23, 1960, in Birmingham, England, Jordan grew up in Montreal, as noted in the statement.
Geoff Kulawick, the former president of Stony Plain Records, which released her last two albums, characterized her as “bold, beautiful, and brave.”
During her time with Stony Plain, Jordan collaborated with her husband, Derek Sharp, to record her 2020 album, Rebel Moon Blues, as well as her 2022 album, Bitches Blues.
Kulawick expressed that he was a fan of Jordan long before she joined his label, mentioning that he encouraged her to “really belt out the blues” on her last two albums.
“Her voice truly stood out, and her emotional connection with the audience attracted many fans,” he stated.
An inspiration to all young performers
Derek Downham, a Canadian producer and songwriter, recalled that they “really connected” when they first met at Toronto’s Massey Hall a few years back.
“She was a beacon of light and a remarkably funny person,” Downham said, noting that he played drums alongside Jordan at singer-songwriter Andy Kim’s holiday charity concert in Montreal last December.
“The greatest heartbreak for me is knowing I won’t hear that laugh again.”
Sass Jordan performing at the 1992 Big Valley Jamboree. (CBC)
As one of the few female rock artists during her early career, Jordan played a significant role in paving the way for other women in a predominantly male genre, he noted.
“She emerged during a time when it wasn’t easy,” he remarked. “It’s inspiring to see a strong woman break through and show everyone how it’s done.”
Downham emphasized that Jordan served as an inspiration to younger artists.
“I hope people remember her for paving the way and for leading with love every step of the way.”
