Trans musician SOPHIE dead at 34

Pioneering, Grammy-nominated trans musician, Sophie Xeon (known by her stage name of SOPHIE), has died at 34 due to a ‘sudden accident’, with the exact cause of her death not yet known. The Glasgow born artist, who was living in Greece before her death, has collaborated with stars such as Madonna, Lady Gaga and Charli XCX, and was known for her unique, genre-defying electronic sound. She was also an advocate for LGBTQ+ equality, having come out as trans in 2017.

SOPHIE’s management confirmed the news of her death to NME: “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. 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.”

Tributes have poured in for SOPHIE, with fellow music artist and LGBTQ+ icon, Chris (of Christine and the Queens), tweeting: “Sophie was a stellar producer, a visionary, a reference. She rebelled against the narrow, normative society by being an absolute triumph, both as an artist and as a woman. I can’t believe she is gone. We need to honor and respect her memory and legacy. Cherish the pioneers.” Model and trans activist, Munroe Bergdorf, also tweeted in memory of SOPHIE: “Our community has lost an icon, a pioneer and a visionary bright light. Heartbroken. SOPHIE you will be missed. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. I hope we get to meet again one day. Rest in peace sister.”