Tributes have been pouring in for Canadian singer Sass Jordan following her death at age 65 on October 2.
Jordan was one of the most recognizable voices in Canadian rock, building a career that spanned more than four decades. Born in Birmingham, England, and raised in Canada, she emerged on the Canadian rock scene in the 1980s, initially performing with the Pinups, where she sang and played bass. She went on to establish herself as a solo artist, releasing a string of albums and becoming known for her powerful rock voice and work with a wide range of musicians.
Deep Purple bassist Glenn Hughes, fellow Canadian rock singer Lee Aaron, David Bowie keyboardist Mike Garson, Austin guitarist and songwriter Ian Moore, Bif Naked and Go-Go’s bass guitarist Kathy Valentine are among the musicians who have paid tribute to Jordan.
Jordan’s death was announced on her Instagram.
“On Oct. 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, Sass Jordan peacefully crossed over to the other side.
“She remains in our hearts, an inimitable force of nature. An irreplaceable being of light and joy!”
Eric Alper, Jordan’s longtime PR agent, wrote, “Over four decades, she gave Canadian rock one of its most recognizable voices, carved out space for women in a genre long dominated by men, and opened doors for the young musicians who came through her band.”
Following the announcement of Jordan’s death, Hughes posted, “So suddenly, I’m heartbroken. A true friend. We had so much love, joy and laughter, and music together. RIP My Sasseroonie Girl.”
Aaron wrote, “Oh man… unexpected and crushing… my heartfelt condolences go out to Sass Jordan’s family, bandmates and loved ones. ❤️ The world has lost a formidable talent. RIP Sweet rock’n’roll sister… I thought we’d have many more years of making music and getting silly backstage together.”
Garson, who was Bowie’s longtime keyboard player, wrote:
“I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of Sass Jordan.
“Sass and I had the joy of working together on our A Bowie Celebration tours. She was an extraordinary singer, but what I remember just as much was the person behind that unmistakable voice.
“She had a great heart, a wonderful spirit, an incredible feel for the music, and a wicked sense of humor. She was an absolute joy to work with, both onstage and off.
“When Sass joined us, she said that performing Bowie’s music every night felt like ‘playing a love letter to his memory.’ It was an honor to share those nights and that music with her.
“My deepest condolences to her family, friends, fellow musicians, and everyone who loved her.
“Sass was one of a kind, and she will be deeply missed.”
Moore wrote, “So sad to hear about the passing of my dear friend Sass Jordan. We met early in our careers and became fast friends. She was an amazing performer, but ever moreso, a beautiful and caring human who loved her people..”
Bif Naked wrote, “Love you, sweet lady. Love you forever.”
And Valentine shared, “Very sad news, Sass was such a powerhouse, a natural.”
Last month, Jordan canceled performances in Ontario and Quebec City, citing health issues. A cause of death has not been disclosed.
