Charlie Gracie was a pioneering rock and roll singer and guitarist from Philadelphia, celebrated as one of the genre’s first breakout stars. Rising to fame in the 1950s, he made history with his hit “Butterfly,” which topped the charts in both the U.S. and U.K. Known for his energetic guitar playing, smooth vocals, and charismatic stage presence, Gracie influenced generations of artists, including George Harrison and Paul McCartney. His enduring legacy marks him as a foundational figure in the birth of rock music.