

He shares stories of Harold Washington, Chicago's first African American mayor, and others, including Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan. Drawing on countless conversations and interviews with Butler and others, Smith chronicles the "Iceman's" journey from rural Mississippi to Chicago, and the founding and eventual breakup of the legendary Impressions vocal group.Ĭurrently serving his fourth term on the Cook County Board of Commissioners, Butler also gives us a glimpse inside the world of Chicago politics. Only the Strong Survive, as told to Earl Smith, is an autobiography but more than that, it is history. Jerry's mother Pat, who grew up in Columbus, GA was also very talented. This band traveled regionally and among others performed at the White House in 1976 as part of the Nation’s Bicentennial. Filled with intimate anecdotes about such R&B legends as Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield, Patti LaBelle, Sam Cook, and Dionne Warwick, Butler's compelling, sometimes hilarious, narrative is told against the backdrop of 1960s America. Jerry began his music career at age 12 in Knoxville, TN with the Knoxville Newgrass Boys, a local band which also included bandmate Phil Leadbetter. Filled with intimate anecdotes about such R&B legends as Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield, Patti LaBelle, Sam Cook, and Dionne Warwick, Butler's compelling, sometimes hilarious, narrative is told against the backdrop Jerry Butler's Only the Strong Survive presents a portrait of a remarkable performer, as well as an up-close and personal look at the world of rhythm-and-blues. Since his 1991 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Impressions, several music writers and critics have. Jerry Butler Experience: 1975-78 Sport: Football Jerry Butler was an outstanding wide receiver for the Tigers in the late 70s. He has two sons, Randy and Tony, and a grandson, Jeriel.

His wife Annette, originally one of his backup singers, died in 2019. Jerry Butler's Only the Strong Survive presents a portrait of a remarkable performer, as well as an up-close and personal look at the world of rhythm-and-blues. Jerry Butler Personal Life, Relationships and Dating.
