Sass Jordan, the rock vocalist from Montreal whose career spanned almost 40 years, has passed away at the age of 65.
According to a statement from family representative Eric Alper, Jordan died on Friday in the company of her loved ones. The cause of her death has yet to be disclosed.
The statement characterized Jordan as a unique force of nature, an irreplaceable source of light and happiness.
Her first album, Tell Somebody, debuted in 1988, earning her the Juno Award for most promising female vocalist in 1989. Her follow-up album, Racine, released in 1992, featured popular tracks like Make You a Believer.
Jordan received multiple nominations for a Juno Award in the best female vocalist category. Additionally, she served as a judge on all six seasons of the reality show Canadian Idol.
‘Really belt out the blues’
Born on December 23, 1960, in Birmingham, England, Jordan grew up in Montreal, as mentioned in the statement.
Geoff Kulawick, the former president of Stony Plain Records, which launched Jordan’s last two albums, described her as “bold, beautiful, and brave.”
In 2020, Jordan produced her album, Rebel Moon Blues, followed by Bitches Blues in 2022, both created with her husband Derek Sharp while she was with Stony Plain.
Kulawick recalled being a fan of Jordan even before she joined his label and that he encouraged her to “truly belt out the blues” on her last two albums.
“Her voice was exceptional, and her ability to connect emotionally attracted many fans,” he remarked.
An inspiration to all young performers
Canadian producer and songwriter Derek Downham shared that they “really clicked” when they first met at Massey Hall in Toronto a few years back.
“She was a bright light and an incredibly funny individual,” Downham said, noting he played drums alongside Jordan at singer-songwriter Andy Kim’s holiday charity concert in Montreal last December.
“The hardest part for me is knowing I won’t hear that laughter again.”
Sass Jordan performing at the 1992 Big Valley Jamboree. (CBC)
Downham remarked that as one of the few women in rock during her early years, Jordan paved the way for other female artists in a predominantly male genre.
“She emerged during a time when it was challenging,” he said. “It’s inspiring to witness a strong woman break through and demonstrate how it’s done.”
According to Downham, Jordan served as a role model for aspiring performers.
“I hope she is remembered for paving the way and for leading with love at all times.”
