Charlie Gracie Obituary

Charlie Gracie was an American rock and roll and rhythm and blues singer and guitarist. His biggest hits were Butterfly and Fabulous, both in 1957.

Gracie’s musical career started at the age of 16 when he appeared on the Paul Whiteman television show in 1952. He performed at weddings, local restaurants and parties. He won regional talent contests as well.

Philadelphia gave birth to the new Cameo record label. Its founders, in search of a strong talent, signed Gracie later that year. With a budget of $600, the union recorded Butterfly backed with Ninety Nine Ways. It became a hit record, reaching #1 in jukebox plays on the Billboard chart.

Gracie was inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame on November 16, 2012, at the Hilton City Avenue, Philadelphia. In 2019, Gracie toured the UK with Marty Wilde along with Mike Berry, Nancy Ann Lee and the Wildcats.

He was married for over 60 years to his wife, Joan and they had two children together.

Gracie died on December 16, 2022, at the age of 86 after complications from COVID-19 since April.