Tony Butala, the legendary singer who helped turn The Lettermen into one of America’s most beloved vocal groups with romantic hits like “The Way You Look Tonight” and “When I Fall in Love,” has died at the age of 87.
Butala died Sunday, November 1, leaving behind a musical legacy spanning more than six decades. His death was confirmed by The Lettermen in an emotional Facebook announcement, although the cause was not disclosed.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the recent passing of Tony Butala,” the group wrote, describing their founding member as an irreplaceable part of The Lettermen’s history.
The tribute expressed condolences to his children, grandchildren, siblings and loved ones, while remembering a man whose dedication helped keep the group’s music alive for generations.
Born November 20, 1938, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, Butala discovered his love for music while growing up on his grandparents’ farm. His remarkable voice attracted attention early, and by age 8, he was already performing on Pittsburgh’s KDKA Radio.
His talents eventually brought him to Hollywood, where he joined the Mitchell Boys Choir and appeared in classic films, including White Christmas, Peter Pan and The War of the Worlds.
But his greatest success was still ahead.
In the late 1950s, Butala joined forces with Jim Pike and Bob Engemann to form The Lettermen, a vocal trio whose smooth harmonies and romantic ballads quickly captured the hearts of American audiences.
Their breakthrough came in 1961 with a recording of “The Way You Look Tonight,” which climbed to No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the group a Grammy nomination.
The hits kept coming. “When I Fall in Love” reached the Top 10 in 1962, while their 1968 medley of “Goin’ Out of My Head” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” became another major success.
Over the years, The Lettermen released more than 75 albums, earned four Grammy nominations and toured extensively throughout the United States and overseas. Their signature three-part harmonies made them favorites among listeners who loved the romantic sound of the 1960s.
While musical trends changed, Butala remained committed to preserving the group’s distinctive style. He continued performing until 2019, eventually becoming the last surviving member of the original trio following Engemann’s death in 2013 and Pike’s death in 2019.
In February 2020, Butala and The Lettermen received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a fitting tribute to their remarkable place in American music history.
Even after stepping away from the stage, Butala remained involved in ensuring The Lettermen would continue entertaining audiences.
The group’s surviving members credited him with establishing the foundation that allowed the act to endure through numerous lineup changes.
“Though his performing days had come to an end, he was instrumental in laying the groundwork for The Lettermen’s legacy to continue under skilled leadership,” the band shared.
They also remembered his warmth, generosity and devotion to his fans, noting that entertaining people remained one of his greatest joys throughout his life.
The Lettermen closed their farewell by recalling Butala’s final public solo performance of the classic song “Smile,” a touching reminder of the optimism and comfort he brought to audiences.
The group continues performing today with members Donovan Tea, Bobby Poynton and Rob Gulack, carrying forward the sound Butala helped create.
According to the band’s announcement, there will be no public viewing. Celebrations of Butala’s life are planned in Wisconsin and California, with details to be announced later.
For generations of fans who fell in love, danced and made memories to The Lettermen’s music, Butala’s passing marks the end of an era. But the unforgettable harmonies he helped bring to life will continue playing long after his final curtain call.