Jerry Butler dies at 85 after long music and political career

Jerry Butler, an influential soul singer and longtime Illinois politician, has died at 85, reported The Guardian, which further described how Butler passed away at home Thursday while battling Parkinson's disease. Known as the "Iceman" for his cool demeanor on stage, Butler rose from humble beginnings in Mississippi before moving to Chicago where his musical journey began. Despite initially training as a chef, Butler's gospel background helped shape his distinctive sound that would influence generations of musicians.

Butler co-founded The Impressions with childhood friend Curtis Mayfield, recording their breakthrough hit "For Your Precious Love" in 1958, which reached number 11 on the US charts. After leaving the group, Butler maintained a creative partnership with Mayfield, who continued writing songs for Butler's solo career. His versatility showed as he recorded both original compositions and popular standards like "Moon River;" The Guardian highlighted that his biggest success came with the self-penned "Only the Strong Survive," which reached number 4 in 1969.

According to Billboard, legendary Motown artist Smokey Robinson called Butler "one of the great voices of our time," proving the respect Butler commanded among his peers. Billboard points out that Butler recorded an impressive 38 songs that made the Billboard Hot 100 charts during his career, establishing him as a prolific hitmaker.

The nickname "Iceman" was bestowed upon Butler in 1961 by Philadelphia DJ George Woods after Butler calmly continued performing when the sound system failed during a show. His songwriting partnership with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff produced numerous hits including "Only the Strong Survive," which Billboard notes became his highest-charting single at number 4 on the Hot 100.

ABC7 Chicago reports that Butler successfully transitioned from music to politics in the 1980s, becoming an important figure in Chicago's civic life. After supporting Harold Washington's mayoral campaign, Butler won the election for Cook County Commissioner in 1985. Butler served an impressive eight consecutive terms on the commission before retiring in 2018, demonstrating his commitment to public service. His political career spanned over three decades, showing the same dedication he brought to his music.