Jerry Butler, known as The Iceman, dies at 85

Butler’s musical legacy is profound, with a catalog of more than 55 hits that left an indelible mark on soul music.

Jerry Butler, the legendary soul singer famously known as The Iceman, has passed away at the age of 85.

He breathed his last at his home in Chicago on February 20, following a prolonged battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Butler’s musical legacy is profound, with a catalog of more than 55 hits that left an indelible mark on soul music. Among his most memorable tracks are Only the Strong Survive, Need to Belong, Make It Easy on Yourself, Brand New Me, and Never Give You Up. His timeless voice and emotive storytelling continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.

Born in Missouri, Jerry Butler was just three years old when his parents, who worked as sharecroppers, relocated the family to Chicago. This move was part of the historic Great Migration, during which many African American families sought better opportunities in northern cities.

In the late 1950s, Butler co-founded The Impressions alongside his childhood friend Curtis Mayfield, whom he had met through their church. While the group gained prominence, Butler eventually embarked on a successful solo career that cemented his place in music history.

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Beyond his impact on the music industry, Butler dedicated decades of his life to public service. From 1985 to 2018, he served as a commissioner for Cook County, Illinois, where he made significant contributions. As Vice Chair of the Construction Committee and Chair of the Health and Hospitals Committee, he played an active role in advocating for community welfare and development.

His contributions to soul music and his pioneering work with The Impressions were officially honored in 1991 when the group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their lasting influence on the industry.