Jerry Butler, who found R&B stardom in the late 1950s as the first lead singer of the Impressions before moving on to a solo career and a second life in Chicago politics, died Thursday. He was 85.
His death was reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, which cited a family friend and said that Butler (who had Parkinson’s disease) died at his home.
Nicknamed “The Iceman,” Butler sang in a coolly knowing baritone that hinted at the passions of church and romance while putting across a sense of reassurance that here was a guy who knew what to do in any given situation. Among his dozens of hits — many of which he co-wrote — were the Impressions’ debut single, “For Your Precious Love”; “He Will Break Your Heart”; “Make It Easy on Yourself”; “Let It Be Me”; and “Only the Strong Survive,” which reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1969 and inspired subsequent renditions by Elvis Presley, Skeeter Davis, Billy Paul, Rod Stewart and Bruce Springsteen, among others.
In 1970, “Only the Strong Survive” was nominated for R&B song at the Grammy Awards, while Butler’s album “The Ice Man Cometh” — produced by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, architects of the lush Philly soul sound — received a nod for best R&B vocal performance. Butler put more than 50 songs on Billboard’s R&B chart, including 18 in the Top 10. As a member of the Impressions — which he formed with his adolescent friend Curtis Mayfield, who took over as the group’s lead singer when Butler left in 1960 — Butler was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, half a decade after he was elected to a spot on the Cook County Board of Commissioners. He held the position until he retired in 2018.
The tragic death of a soulful R&B singer and hit songwriter at the age of 66 has sent shockwaves through the music community and left fans mourning the loss of a true icon. This artist, whose rich voice and heartfelt songwriting resonated with listeners for decades, has been taken far too soon, and the world of music will undoubtedly feel the void left behind.
At 66 years old, the artist was in the midst of a storied career that had spanned generations, influencing not only the R&B genre but also pop, soul, and even contemporary music. Their unique style, a seamless blend of emotion and musicality, made them a beloved figure in the music world. From chart-topping hits to deeply personal ballads, their songs told stories that were relatable, raw, and authentic, tapping into universal emotions of love, loss, joy, and heartache.
The artist’s departure feels like the closing of a chapter in an era of music that was defined by deep soul, complex melodies, and lyricism that went beyond the superficial. Their ability to craft songs that touched the heart and spoke to the soul made them not just a performer, but a poet and a storyteller. Many of their hits became anthems for entire generations, echoing through homes, cars, and radio stations, with their voice offering comfort and connection during both joyous and challenging times.
What makes their passing even more heartbreaking is the fact that they were more than just a singer. They were also a prolific songwriter, penning hits for themselves and other artists alike. Their words, often filled with vulnerability and wisdom, created an enduring legacy that will continue to influence the next wave of artists. It’s clear that their work will continue to be a touchstone for musicians, songwriters, and fans who seek to create something deeply meaningful and enduring.
For many, this artist was also a symbol of resilience. Their career wasn’t just a collection of albums and hits, but a story of perseverance through personal struggles, changing musical landscapes, and industry shifts. They represented an authenticity that couldn’t be manufactured, and that’s what set them apart in a world of mass production. This authenticity and raw emotional honesty created a deep bond with their listeners, who often saw the artist’s personal journey reflected in their music.
The sudden nature of their death adds to the tragedy. It’s always difficult to lose someone whose presence in the world was so significant. Fans, fellow musicians, and those who were fortunate enough to work with the artist will forever remember them not only for the music they created but for the warmth and soul they brought to every stage they graced.
While we mourn the passing of this incredible talent, we also celebrate the music and legacy they leave behind. Their songs will continue to live on, forever etched in the hearts of those who found comfort, joy, and even healing through the power of their voice. In the end, perhaps that is the most fitting tribute — a legacy that transcends death and time, and continues to inspire future generations.
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