Jerry Butler: The Iceman, 1939 - 2025

Feb 21

Jerry Butler, affectionately known as “The Iceman” for his smooth delivery and cool demeanor, and celebrated for classic hits such as “Moon River”, “For Your Precious Love” and “Only The Strong Survive,” has sadly passed away at the age of 85. Often hailed as the "Ice Man" by fans and critics alike, Butler was an iconic American soul singer whose illustrious career remarkably spanned over six decades.

Born on December 8, 1939, in the small town of Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler's musical journey began in the vibrant Chicago gospel scene, where he honed his craft, before he co-founded the legendary and immensely influential soul group The Impressions in the early 1960s.

With his smooth, emotive voice and an innate ability to convey profound emotion, he quickly became well-known for his memorable hit songs, including the timeless “For Your Precious Love” and the inspiring “Only the Strong Survive.” Butler's successful transition to a solo career further reinforced his esteemed status as a prominent figure in the soul music genre.

His groundbreaking ability to seamlessly blend pop and soul was truly revolutionary, paving the way for numerous artists who emerged after him. His impressive work in the 1970s, particularly hits like “Follow Me” and “Hey, Western Union Man,” showcased a remarkable versatility and artistry that would inspire generations of musicians to come.

Today, Jerry Butler's lasting musical influence is palpably felt in the work of modern artists who draw upon the rich tapestry of soul music. Contemporary R&B singers such as John Legend, Leon Bridges and Frank Ocean consistently echo Butler's emotive vocal style and heartfelt storytelling in their own music. Moreover, hip-hop artists like Drake have creatively sampled classic soul tracks, further demonstrating the enduring relevance and profound impact of Butler's remarkable musical legacy.

The following is an and article and interview with Butler from SOUL Newspaper December 2, 1968:

Jerry Butler: Calm & Cool

By G. W. Howard | Dec. 2, 1968

They call him the "Iceman." Onstage he is very reserved, and when he breaks into one or two dance movements Jerry Butler turns the audience around. Making a recent appearance in Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to catch his show and chat with Jerry.

In his act he creates all the excitement. There are no loud garish arrangements, there are no tricks. He merely walks out on stage and sings his song. Jerry possesses the kind of voice and style that lend to any song. He is an entertainer.

Included in his act are many of his former hits. Each one was greeted with much applause. "They are a foundation for my nightclub act," he stated. "Most people come to see you sing the songs they remember you by."

A Quiet Sort

It is said that you always lookout for the quiet ones. Jerry Butler is a quiet one. At least he seems to be. But it is also said that looks are deceiving. To let Jerry Butler tell it, "Everything upsets me," and he laughed his quiet, sly laugh. He continues, "I had a very bad temper. A terrible temper. And I started to think about it. Then I tried to contain it because I found myself saying things in anger that I really didn't mean to say. And I thought, well it's dumb man to keep saying things then going back apologizing for it. So now even when I'm angry, I don't say anything, I just shut up and sit there and try to get myself together before I speak. And I find because of this I make fewer enemies. "I get less done a lot of times because I think people feel that you really don't care unless you jump up and down, and scream and holler at them. But I feel that if people want to do what's right you don't have to go through all of that.

Grew Up Early

This containment follows him onstage. "After leaving the Impressions, who are not very showy, they simply walk out and sing the song. We, none of us were exceptionally good dancers. I think I was the better of the bunch; and I'm not what you call good. None of us were ever involved in dancing. As I say because I kind of grew up early, I never hung out at the dances. The latest dance was never the big thing with me. It was more like, how am I going to make a living tomorrow? That was always the thing with me. Consequently I grew up fast. I was never overwhelmed by young people. I always hung out with guys older than myself. My values then were a lot different from the young people. "And I always admired Nat Cole. He was, to me, the epitome of what a singer should be. He walked out there and sang the song and everybody listened because he had something to say. Like I said, after I left the Impressions and started to work I found it very difficult for me to jump up and down and tear my clothes off or go through all those changes. To me that looks ridiculous. So I found myself being able to get my song across without it. If I had to do it I wouldn't have been around this long.

Culinary School

Jerry's father died when Jerry was in his first year of high school in Chicago. Being the oldest child he 'became the man of the 'house. It was to him that the family looked when there were any problems. So he dropped out of school and attended a culinary school.

As you probably guessed, he never became a great chef, at least, not professionally. However, Jerry loves to cook and create his own dishes. One crazy one, that's what he called it, is steak, tomatoes, and brocoli all cooked together in a stew. I must get this recipe for myself. He says that each one retains its own flavor instead of blending in witth the others. That's what makes it so good.

When he isn't cooking, or singing, or taking care of business at his publishing firm, you might find Jerry out on a basketball court. He enjoys all sports, still basketball is his favorite. Especially when he can get out on the court with the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, and Wally Jones. Just some of the guys who share a common interest, basketball. They get out on the court and just clown around. Jerry admits he doesn't shoot as well as they do, but then, they can't sing.