Jerry Butler, Iconic Soul Singer and Public Servant, Dies at 85

Jerry Butler, the revered baritone singer and co-founder of the music group The Impressions, has passed away at the age of 85. Butler died in his home in Chicago on February 20.

Renowned for classic hits such as “For Your Precious Love” and “Only The Strong Survive,” Butler’s musical legacy includes two Grammy nominations. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease prior to his death.

Butler was not just a musical icon; he also served as a dedicated public servant in the Chicago area, holding a position on the Cook County Board of Commissioners for about 30 years. Toni Preckwinkle, president of the Cook County Board, expressed deep sorrow over Butler’s passing.

In a statement to USA Today, Preckwinkle remarked, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry ‘The Iceman’ Butler, a legendary artist and beloved member of our Cook County community. His contributions to both music and public service are immeasurable.”

Preckwinkle highlighted Butler’s significant impact not only in the realm of music but also in his advocacy for the people of Chicago. “As a Cook County Commissioner from 1985 to 2018, Butler worked tirelessly to expand healthcare access, improve infrastructure, and advocate for policies that strengthened our communities.

His leadership on the Health and Hospitals Committee was instrumental in ensuring that critical resources reached those in need,” Preckwinkle added.

Born in Missouri to parents who were sharecroppers, Butler moved to Chicago where he formed The Impressions with his friend Curtis Mayfield in the late 1950s.

The group, which also included members Sam Gooden, Richard Brooks, and Art Brooks, first signed with Vee-Jay Records and achieved fame with their hit singles “For Your Precious Love” and “Come Back My Love.”

Butler embarked on a solo career in 1960, achieving his highest-charting hit with “Only the Strong Survive,” which he created in collaboration with songwriters Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.

Throughout his career as a solo artist, Butler had 38 tracks that reached the Billboard Hot 100, cementing his place as a significant figure in the history of soul music.