Jerry Butler: podcast appearances and interviews

Jerry Butler Jr. (December 8, 1939 – February 20, 2025) was an American soul singer-songwriter, producer, musician, and politician. He initially gained fame as the original lead singer of the R&B vocal group the Impressions, a group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. After leaving the group in 1960, Butler established a successful solo career with over 55 Billboard Pop and R&B Chart hits, including notable songs such as He Will Break Your Heart, Let It Be Me, and Only the Strong Survive. His contributions to music were recognized with his induction into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2015. In addition to his musical career, Butler served as a Commissioner for Cook County, Illinois, from 1985 to 2018. During his tenure on the 17-member county government board, he chaired the Health and Hospitals Committee and served as Vice Chair of the Construction Committee. Throughout his life, Butler was known for his multifaceted contributions to both the music industry and public service.