Tony Butler is a British bassist. He was born on February 13, 1957, in Shepherd's Bush, London, England, UK. Butler is best known for his work with Scottish rock band Big Country. He has also worked with On the Air, The Pretenders, Roger Daltrey, and Pete Townshend.
Kindred Spirit’s - Think Loud 4 Parkinson’s, released on 14th February 2025, sees a plethora of British rock legends team up to help raise awareness and funds for the charity Cure Parkinson’s. The album features all new and previously unreleased tracks. Think Loud with lead vocals from Leo Sayer, is the first single to be taken from the album. The accompanying video also features Glen Matlock of Sex Pistols, Blondie’s Clem Burke, and British football legend Stuart Pearce. The soulful, Pop/ Rock track was written by Strictly Come Dancing theme co-composer and organist Josh Philips, Paul Mitchell, and Ian Grant. Other artists featured on the track are John Illsley of Dire Straits and Marcella Detroit of Shakespear's Sister.
The vinyl version of the album (released 21st February 2025) also contains Leo Sayer’s incredibly special version of The Beatles’ Eleanor Rigby, which borrows the classic groove of Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean making it a unique and eye-catching highlight of this collection.
Leo Sayer, who fronts three tracks on the compilation, including the reimagined, R&B version of Eleanor Rigby, said “I made two versions - one of them was a grunge style cover unbelievably. I put a Michael Jackson-inspired version on in the end. The song felt fitting: ‘I look at all the lonely people.’ Well, people who are going through Parkinson’s will tell you it can be one of the loneliest experiences in the world.”
The project was put together by esteemed music manager Ian Grant, who helped steer the careers of iconic groups Big Country, The Cult, The Stranglers, and many more. Grant was motivated to begin the project, alongside music producer Paul Mitchell, in response to his own experience with Parkinson’s disease.
Speaking about Think Loud 4 Parkinson’s, Grant said: “To quote the words Pete Townshend said to me: ‘Ian, it’s not easy asking for favours for charitable stuff. It can be demeaning. But when it all works out, it makes it feel worth it. I was determined to put this project together. It hasn’t been an easy journey but the contribution I’ve received from the talented people involved has kept this alive. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together, and Cure Parkinson’s have been unwavering in their support”.
About Cure Parkinson’s
We’re here for the cure. Cure Parkinson’s is working with urgency to find new treatments to slow, stop, and reverse Parkinson’s. Our funding and innovation have redefined the field of Parkinson’s research, enabling the world’s leading researchers to prioritize the next generation of drugs for clinical trials. Together we will conquer Parkinson’s.
Further information at www.cureparkinsons.org.uk
Cure Parkinson’s is the operating name of The Cure Parkinson’s Trust, a registered charity in England and Wales (1111816) and Scotland (SCO44368) and a company limited by guarantee - company number 05539974 (England and Wales).
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