Jimmy Buffett, the iconic musician known for his laid-back beach bum persona and the hit song “Margaritaville,” passed away on September 1, as confirmed by an official statement on his website and social media pages. He was 76. The statement revealed that Buffett died peacefully, surrounded by his family, friends, music, and dogs, living his life “like a song till the very last breath.”
Buffett’s career spanned over five decades, during which he cultivated a devoted fan base known as “Parrotheads.” His summer tours were legendary, attracting throngs of fans dressed in tropical-themed attire, reflecting the relaxed, tropical vibe of Buffett’s music. His health issues began in 2022, leading to the cancellation of several shows. In 2023, he was again hospitalized, forcing him to cancel more concerts.
Born on Christmas Day in 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buffett developed a love for sailing from his grandfather. He began his musical journey at Auburn University, where he started playing the guitar. He later moved to Nashville to release his first country album, “Down to Earth,” in 1970.
Buffett’s breakthrough came in 1977 with “Margaritaville,” a relaxed, catchy tune that became a pop culture staple. His other hits from the 1970s and 1980s, such as “Come Monday,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,” all bore his signature “trop rock” sound, characterized by acoustic guitar, steel drums, and pedal steel guitar.
Beyond his music, Buffett was also a successful businessman. His business ventures expanded to include apparel, resorts, restaurants, beer, casinos, a radio station, and retirement communities. By 2023, Forbes estimated Buffett’s worth at $1 billion.
Despite his business success, Buffett never abandoned his creative pursuits. He launched Margaritaville Records in the early ’90s, wrote several fiction books, and contributed to film and TV. His final album, “Life on the Flipside,” was released in 2020.