Remembering Jerry Butler: The Iceman of Soul and Politics

Category: Obituary

Jerry Butler, the iconic soul singer known as 'The Iceman,' has died at 85. He was a member of The Impressions and a successful solo artist, leaving behind a rich musical legacy and a career in Chicago politics.

Jerry Butler, known as 'The Iceman,' was a legendary soul singer and songwriter who made significant contributions to music and politics. He passed away at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that includes a series of hit songs and a notable political career in Chicago. Butler first gained fame as the lead singer of The Impressions, where he recorded classics like 'For Your Precious Love' before embarking on a successful solo career with hits such as 'He Will Break Your Heart' and 'Make It Easy on Yourself.' In addition to his musical achievements, Butler served as a Cook County Commissioner, showcasing his commitment to public service. He was a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and a three-time Grammy Award nominee, celebrated for his resounding baritone and courtly manner. Butler's impact on both the music industry and Chicago politics will be remembered for generations to come.

Reference

Updated At: 2/22/2025

Jerry Butler, soul hitmaker and Illinois politician, dies aged 85

Jerry Butler, the influential US singer and songwriter known for his 1960s pop and soul hits, has died at 85 after battling Parkinson’s disease. He began his career with the group Jerry Butler and the Impressions, achieving success with songs like 'For Your Precious Love' and later as a solo artist with hits such as 'Only the Strong Survive'. Butler transitioned into politics in the 1980s, serving on the Cook County Board of Commissioners until 2018. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

The Guardian

Jerry Butler, R&B singer and early leader of the Impressions, dies at 85

Jerry Butler, the first lead singer of the Impressions and a prominent R&B artist, passed away at 85 due to Parkinson's disease. Known as 'The Iceman,' he had numerous hits including 'For Your Precious Love' and 'Only the Strong Survive.' Butler was also involved in Chicago politics, serving on the Cook County Board of Commissioners until 2018. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 and left a significant legacy in both music and public service.

Los Angeles Times

Chicago soul music giant and politician Jerry Butler dies at 85

Jerry 'The Iceman' Butler, the legendary soul music artist and Cook County commissioner, passed away at 85. He first gained fame in 1958 with The Impressions' hit 'For Your Precious Love' and was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Butler served as a commissioner for over three decades, advocating for healthcare and community improvement. He is remembered for his contributions to music and public service, leaving a lasting impact on both fields.

ABC7 Chicago

Jerry Butler, Impressions Singer and Longtime Chicago Politician Dies at 85

Jerry Butler, the iconic Chicago soul singer known for his work with the Impressions and as a solo artist, passed away at 85 after battling Parkinson's disease. He was celebrated for hits like 'For Your Precious Love' and 'Only the Strong Survive,' and later transitioned into politics, serving on the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Butler's contributions to music and culture were recognized with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

Billboard

Soul singer Jerry 'Ice Man' Butler dies at 85

Jerry Butler, a prominent soul singer known for hits like 'For Your Precious Love' and 'Only the Strong Survive,' has passed away at 85. He was a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a three-time Grammy nominee. Butler's career spanned decades, beginning with the Impressions and later collaborating with Gamble and Huff in Philadelphia. He also served as a Cook County board commissioner and was involved in supporting fellow musicians.

Spectrum News NY1

Jerry Butler, Iconic R&B Singer and Longtime Chicago Politician, Dead at 85

Jerry Butler, the original lead singer of the Impressions and a successful solo artist, has died at 85. His contributions to music and the Chicago community were significant, with hits like 'For Your Precious Love' and a career that included a stint in politics. Butler was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 and continued to influence both music and local governance until his retirement in 2018.

Rolling Stone