Jerry Butler, the renowned soul singer known as the "Iceman" who later became a prominent Illinois politician, has died at his Chicago home at age 85. Butler, who had been battling Parkinson's disease, passed away on Thursday.
Rising from humble beginnings in Mississippi before moving to Chicago, Butler helped pioneer the soul music genre, first as co-founder of The Impressions with Curtis Mayfield and later as a successful solo artist. His 1958 hit "For Your Precious Love" with The Impressions reached #11 on the US charts and was later named one of Rolling Stone's 500 greatest songs.
After launching his solo career, Butler maintained a fruitful songwriting partnership with Mayfield, producing hits like "He Will Break Your Heart." His biggest success came in 1969 with the self-penned "Only the Strong Survive," reaching #4 on the charts. Butler's rich baritone voice and understated performance style earned him the nickname "Iceman."
Throughout his musical career, Butler recorded 38 songs that made the Billboard Hot 100, including his interpretations of standards like "Moon River." He also co-wrote classics for other artists, including Otis Redding's "I've Been Loving You Too Long."
In the 1980s, Butler successfully transitioned to politics, winning election to the Cook County Board of Commissioners in 1986. He served eight consecutive terms before retiring in 2018, overseeing courts, prisons, and healthcare initiatives in the Illinois county.
Butler was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 as a member of The Impressions. His musical legacy lives on through his extensive songbook, which has been sampled by modern artists including Snoop Dogg and Missy Elliott.
He was married for 60 years to Annette Smith, who passed away in 2019. Throughout his later years, Butler remained active in supporting fellow musicians through his work with the Rhythm & Blues Foundation, advocating for better benefits and assistance for artists.