The music world is in shock and grief after the news of Jimmy Buffett’s death broke on Friday, September 1, 2023. The legendary singer, songwriter, and businessman, best known for his hit song “Margaritaville” and his lifestyle brand of the same name, died at the age of 76 after a secret battle with skin cancer and lymphoma.
A Life Like a Song
Jimmy Buffett was born on December 25, 1946, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. He started his musical career as a country singer in Nashville, but soon moved to Key West, Florida, where he developed his signature style of “drunken Caribbean rock ‘n’ roll”. His songs often celebrated the laid-back and adventurous lifestyle of the tropics, with themes such as sailing, surfing, drinking, and escapism.
Buffett’s breakthrough came in 1977 with the release of his album Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes, which featured his most famous song “Margaritaville”. The song reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a classic anthem for beach lovers and partygoers. Buffett went on to record more than 30 albums, including several live albums recorded at his sold-out concerts. He also wrote several books, including two best-selling novels: Tales from Margaritaville and Where Is Joe Merchant?
A Business Empire
Besides his music career, Buffett was also a successful entrepreneur who built a multi-million dollar empire based on his Margaritaville brand. He opened his first Margaritaville restaurant in Key West in 1985, and since then expanded to more than 30 locations around the world. He also launched a chain of hotels and resorts, a radio station, a clothing line, a tequila brand, a beer brand, a casino, and a Broadway musical. He was also involved in various philanthropic and environmental causes, such as Save the Manatee Club and Singing for Change Foundation.
Buffett’s net worth was estimated at $600 million by Forbes in 2020. He was ranked No. 95 on the list of the richest celebrities in the world.
A Secret Battle with Cancer
According to TMZ, Buffett was diagnosed with skin cancer four years ago. The disease progressed to lymphoma, which was the cause of his death. A source told the outlet that Buffett lived his life in the sun, literally and figuratively, referring to his love of boating and traveling. The source also said that Buffett had been on hospice since Monday and that Paul McCartney visited him at his home within the last week to sing to him.
Buffett’s death was announced on his official website and social media accounts on Friday morning. The statement read: “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1 surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs. He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”
A Legacy of Music and Joy
Buffett’s fans and fellow musicians expressed their sorrow and condolences on social media. Kenny Chesney wrote: “So goodbye Jimmy. Thanks for your friendship and the songs I will carry in my heart forever. Sail On Sailor.” Elton John called Buffett a “unique and treasured entertainer” and said: “This is the saddest of news. A lovely man gone way too soon.” President Joe Biden also issued a statement saying: “Jimmy Buffett was more than a musician. He was a cultural icon who brought joy and happiness to millions of people around the world with his songs and his spirit.”
Buffett is survived by his wife Jane Slagsvol, whom he married in 1977, and their three children: Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron.
Jimmy Buffett will always be remembered as one of the most influential and beloved artists of all time. His music and his Margaritaville brand will continue to inspire generations of fans who share his passion for life and adventure.