Sass Jordan, a rock vocalist from Montreal whose career lasted nearly 40 years, has passed away at the age of 65.
Jordan died on Friday, with her family by her side, as confirmed by family representative Eric Alper. The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed.
In the statement, Jordan was characterized as a unique force of nature and a one-of-a-kind source of light and happiness.
Her first album, Tell Somebody, debuted in 1988, earning her the Juno Award for most promising female vocalist the following year. Her second album, Racine, came out in 1992 and featured popular tracks such as Make You a Believer.
Jordan received multiple nominations for a Juno Award for best female vocalist and 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 was raised in Montreal, as stated in the announcement.
Geoff Kulawick, the former president of Stony Plain Records, which released Jordan’s final two albums, referred to her as “bold, beautiful, and brave.”
Jordan recorded her 2020 album, Rebel Moon Blues, and her 2022 album, Bitches Blues, together with her husband Derek Sharp while affiliated with Stony Plain.
Kulawick shared that he was an admirer of Jordan even before she joined his label, and 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 earned her numerous fans,” he remarked.
An inspiration to all young performers
Derek Downham, a Canadian producer and songwriter, remarked on how well they connected when they first met at Toronto’s Massey Hall a few years back.
“She was a beacon of light and exceptionally funny,” Downham noted, recalling that he played drums alongside Jordan last December at singer-songwriter Andy Kim’s annual holiday charity concert in Montreal.
“The greatest heartbreak for me is knowing that I won’t get to hear that laugh again.”
Sass Jordan performing at the 1992 Big Valley Jamboree. (CBC)
As one of the few women in the rock scene during her rise, Jordan played a key role in paving the way for other female artists in a predominantly male genre, according to Downham.
“She emerged in an era where it was challenging,” he added. “It’s inspiring to witness a strong woman break through and demonstrate how it’s done.”
Downham expressed that Jordan served as a role model for all emerging artists.
“I hope she is remembered for her pioneering spirit and for always leading with love.”