Legendary soul singer Jerry Butler, known for his hit songs like “For Your Precious Love” and “Moon River,” has passed away at the age of 85. Born on December 8, 1939, in Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler rose to fame in the 1960s with his distinctive voice and smooth delivery.
Butler’s musical journey began in church, where he met future collaborator Curtis Mayfield when they were teenagers. The duo formed a quartet called the Northern Jubilee Gospel Singers before joining a doo-wop group called the Roosters, which eventually became the Impressions. As Jerry Butler and the Impressions, the group signed with Vee-Jay Records in 1958.
Butler’s breakthrough came with the song “For Your Precious Love,” which reached No. 3 on the R&B chart. The song was based on a poem he wrote at age 16 and marked one of the first soul records.
Throughout his career, Butler collaborated with notable artists like Nat King Cole, Kenny Gamble, and Leon Huff. He also hosted several popular PBS specials celebrating vintage stars of doo-wop, R&B, and soul music.
In addition to his music, Butler was a dedicated politician who served on the Cook County Board for over 20 years. He was known for his “studious nature” and his efforts to change the way board members are elected.
Butler is survived by two sons, four grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. His wife of 60 years, Annette, died in 2019. The legendary singer’s legacy will be remembered through his hit songs and his dedication to music and politics.
Honors and awards include an N.A.A.C.P. Image Award, a Rhythm and Blues Pioneer Award, induction into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/21/arts/music/jerry-butler-dead.html