Jerry Butler at Blues Alley
by Kermit821 on 2/28/12Blues Alley - WashingtonI saw Jerry Butler at Blues Alley on February 11, 2012. I think this is like his 42nd year at Blues Alley for 3-5 days around Valentine day. The place is small, only seats 125 people, and was sold out. Jerry Butler (like all of us) is aging and I think is around 73. At times it was hard to look at him, because I felt for him because it is obvious that he is or has been sick, and may have Parkinson Disease because his hand was shaking during most of the performance. But amazingly he still has his tremendous voice, and once he started singing it was like going back to the old days. The backup singers were good, and he featured a young lady who performed My Funny Valentine solo. An exceptional talent. Jerry Butler voice cracked twice on "For Your Precious Love" which is my all time favoite song. But it was the last song of his performance, and he had been on stage for over an hour. But it was great seeing him up close and personal, and I definitely would go see him again when he's in the area. I pray for his health and hope he will be able to continue to perform. He is truly a legend.