SOPHIE, the Grammy-nominated artist, (aka Sophie Xeon) has died.
The transgender music producer earned legions of fans for her sophisticated, experimental style. She received critical acclaim for her work with artists like Madonna and Charli XCX. A statement from her team read:
“It is with profound sadness that I have to inform you that musician and producer SOPHIE passed away this morning around 4am in Athens, where the artist had been living, following a sudden accident.
SOPHIE was a pioneer of a new sound, one of the most influential artists in the last decade. Not only for ingenious production and creativity but also for the message and visibility that was achieved. An icon of liberation.’
At this time respect and privacy for the family is our priority. We would also ask for respect for her fanbase, and to treat the private nature of this news with sensitivity.
Record label Numbers also confirmed the news on Twitter;
“SOPHIE was a true inspiration, the World has lost an icon of liberation. We are devastated. Our thoughts are with SOPHIE’s family and friends at this time. Rest in peace.’
Transgressive Records tweeted,
Tragically our beautiful Sophie passed away this morning after a terrible accident. True to her spirituality, she had climbed up to watch the full moon and accidentally slipped and fell. She will always be here with us.”
One fan tweeted:
“As a trans woman, Sophie’s music and message of empowerment means so much to me- more than I could ever put to words. She is and will always be a true icon of the community who gave us a voice and an outlet.”
Speaking to Paper about being trans, SOPHIE said in 2018,
“It means there’s no longer an expectation based on the body you were born into, or how your life should play out and how it should end. Traditional family models and structures of control disappear.
Transness is taking control to bring your body more in line with your soul and spirit so the two aren’t fighting against each other and struggling to survive.
On this earth, it’s that you can get closer to how you feel your true essence is without the societal pressures of having to fulfil certain traditional roles based on gender.”
No further details on her death have been officially confirmed.
SOPHIE was 34.
You were one of a kind truly a master of your craft. Your sound will live on forever and continue to inspire us. We will miss you so much Sophie…words can’t describe the pain we feel right now. Our hearts go out to her family and friends 💞 rest in power Sophie.
— SOPHIE XEON UPDATES (@XeonUpdates) January 30, 2021
Sophie and her music taught me so much about myself and truly opened me up to a whole new world of friends, music, possibilities. I’m heartbroken. Thank you for your art and rest in power angel 💔 pic.twitter.com/ygRqf68qSh
— marcus ⚡️ connolly (@MarcusAConnolly) January 30, 2021
(via Metro UK)
