Jerry Butler, the legendary soul singer and co-founder of the Impressions, has died at the age of 85. Known for hits like “For Your Precious Love” and “Only the Strong Survive,” Butler passed away on Thursday at his Chicago home, according to reports from the Chicago Sun-Times, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. His family confirmed his death, and it was revealed he had been living with Parkinson’s disease.
Butler, nicknamed “The Iceman” for his cool demeanor, was not only a music icon but also a dedicated public servant. He served on the Cook County Board of Commissioners for over 30 years, advocating for healthcare access, infrastructure improvements, and community development. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle praised Butler’s contributions, calling him a “legendary artist and beloved member of our community.”
Born in Missouri, Butler moved to Chicago with his family at age 3 during the Great Migration. In the late 1950s, he co-founded the Impressions with childhood friend Curtis Mayfield. The group’s debut single, “For Your Precious Love,” became a hit, but Butler left the group in 1960 to pursue a solo career. His solo work included chart-topping songs like “He Will Break Your Heart” and “Only the Strong Survive,” which was later covered by Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Presley, and Rod Stewart.
Butler’s influence extended beyond music. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 as a member of the Impressions. Even during his political career, he continued to perform, leaving a lasting legacy in both music and public service.
Bruce Springsteen, a longtime admirer of Butler’s work, named his 2022 album “Only the Strong Survive” after Butler’s hit. Springsteen credited Butler’s music as a major inspiration, saying it introduced him to the depth of soul music.
Jerry Butler’s passing marks the end of an era for R&B and soul music. His contributions to the genre and his community will be remembered for generations to come.
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