Tony Butala, Last Original Lettermen Member, Dies at 87

Key points

• Tony Butala, co-founder of The Lettermen, died on Sunday at age 87, confirmed by band media coordinator Tracy Clark.
• The trio, formed in the late 1950s, achieved 20 Billboard charting songs, including the 1961 hit 'The Way You Look Tonight,' which peaked at No. 13.
• Butala was the last surviving member of the original lineup; Jim Pike died in 2019 and Bob Engemann in 2013.
• Butala began his career at age 7, appearing in films like 'White Christmas' and 'Peter Pan' by age 10.
• The group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2020, and Butala stepped away from performing in 2019.
• No cause of death was provided, and there will be no public viewing, with celebrations of life planned for Wisconsin and California.

Background

The Lettermen were a prominent vocal group in the 1960s, known for their three-part harmonies and consistent chart success. Their lineup evolved over the decades, but they maintained the trio format to preserve their distinctive sound. The current members are Donovan Tea, Bobby Poynton, and Rob Gulack. Butala's death follows the passing of the other two original members, concluding the era of the founding trio.

Why it matters

Butala's death marks the end of the original founding era of a significant 1960s vocal group. His career, spanning from childhood performances to international touring, highlights the enduring impact of The Lettermen on popular music. The group's continued presence with new members ensures their legacy persists, but the loss of the last original member closes a chapter in music history.

What to watch

Details for celebrations of life in Wisconsin and California will be announced at a later date. The current lineup of The Lettermen will continue performing, maintaining the group's three-part vocal tradition.