Jimmy Buffett, the legendary musician and entrepreneur celebrated for his iconic song “Margaritaville,” has died at the age of 76. The news of his passing was confirmed in a statement posted on his social media and official website on Saturday. Buffett, surrounded by his family, close friends, and his beloved dogs, passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st.
The musician, whose new album “Equal Strain on All Parts” was set to be released later this year, had a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture. Born on Christmas Day in 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buffett’s journey began with a love for musical theater, fostered by his mother Mary’s involvement in the Mobile Theatre Guild in Alabama.
After briefly working as a writer for Billboard magazine and spending time on a fishing boat, Buffett released his first album, “Down to Earth,” in 1970. However, it wasn’t until 1977 that he achieved widespread fame with the release of “Margaritaville,” a sun-kissed anthem that became a cultural phenomenon. The song’s success led to a thriving business empire, including resorts, restaurants, apparel, and beverages, all under the Margaritaville brand.
Buffett’s live performances, often accompanied by his Coral Reefer Band, drew devoted fans known as “Parrotheads” who embraced his unique blend of country, pop, rock, and calypso. He became renowned for his annual concerts that attracted millions of fans worldwide.
Sad to hear the world lost Jimmy Buffet last night, but what a great life he lived as he brought so much happiness to the world. I think “Come Monday” is my favorite song of his. He was at his best solo on an acoustic in my opinion:) Love this video👇https://t.co/FEMbKKXjH5
— John Rich🇺🇸 (@johnrich) September 2, 2023
Beyond his music career, Buffett was a best-selling author and philanthropist. In 1981, he co-founded the nonprofit Save the Manatee Club with then-Florida Governor Bob Graham. Additionally, Forbes reported in 2023 that Buffett had amassed significant wealth, becoming a billionaire with diverse assets, including his music catalog, planes, homes, and investments.
Buffett’s life was not without challenges, including a plane crash in 1994 from which he survived thanks to his Navy training, and a fall offstage during a show in Australia in 2011.
He is survived by his wife Jane and their children, Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron, whom they adopted in the early 1990s. In his memoir, Buffett described his family and friends as treasures more valuable than gold, expressing his gratitude for the fortunate life he had led.
