Remembering Jimmy Buffett: The Life And Legacy Of A Musical Icon

On September 1, 2023, the world lost an iconic voice in music. Jimmy Buffett, best known for his hit "Margaritaville," passed away at the age of 76 after a long battle with Merkel Cell skin cancer. His journey through life was filled with music, adventure, and an undeniable passion for the beach lifestyle. As we reflect on his remarkable career, we are reminded of the joy and inspiration he brought to millions.

Latest News: Jimmy Buffett Died at Age 76

“Margaritaville” singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett died on September 1 at age 76, according to a statement on his website. He had been undergoing treatment for Merkel Cell skin cancer for four years. After being hospitalized in May for a then-undisclosed reason, Buffett had paused touring but continued working on a new album and made a surprise appearance onstage in Rhode Island this July.

Who Was Jimmy Buffett?

Born in 1946 in Mississippi, Jimmy Buffett grew up in Alabama. After attending college, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career in country music and released his first album in 1970. Over the years, he gained a loyal following, and his sixth album, which included the famous song “Margaritaville,” launched him into mainstream success. The hit song became synonymous with Buffett's brand and lifestyle, leading to a wide array of business ventures. Buffett released around 40 albums throughout his career and was known for his extensive touring until his passing in September 2023.

Quick Facts

FULL NAME: James William Buffett
BORN: December 25, 1946
BIRTHPLACE: Pascagoula, Mississippi
DIED: September 1, 2023
SPOUSE: Margie Washichek (1969-1972) and Jane Buffett (1977-2023)
CHILDREN: Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron
ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Capricorn

Early Life and Career

Jimmy Buffett was born James William Buffett on December 25, 1946, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. He grew up in Mobile, Alabama, where he was educated in a Catholic high school. After high school, he went to the University of Southern Mississippi, where he picked up the guitar, hoping to impress women. Following his graduation, Buffett relocated to Nashville to start his career as a country singer, initially working as a journalist for Billboard magazine.

Mainstream Musical Success with "Margaritaville"

In the early 1970s, Buffett moved to Key West and embraced the beach lifestyle that would define his persona. He signed with ABC-Dunhill and released White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean in 1973, gaining popularity with songs like “Why Don’t We Get Drunk.” His big break came in 1977 with the album Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes, which featured the legendary track “Margaritaville.” This song became his only Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying his status as a musical star.

Margaritaville The Business

Buffett's business acumen became apparent when he won a lawsuit against Chi-Chi’s restaurant chain, which tried to trademark a “Margaritaville” drink special. This victory inspired him to open a Margaritaville store in Key West in 1985, followed by a restaurant two years later. Over the years, the Margaritaville brand expanded to include apparel, casinos, bars, and even a cruise ship, generating significant revenue.

More Songs and Albums

Throughout the 1990s, Margaritaville Records produced Buffett's best-selling albums, including Fruitcakes and Banana Wind. In the 2000s, he collaborated with major country artists, achieving success with the CMA Award-winning song “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” Buffett continued to release music, with his latest album, Life on the Flip Side, coming out in 2020. In 2023, the Library of Congress inducted “Margaritaville” into the National Recording Registry.

Declining Health and Death

Buffett passed away on September 1, 2023, at the age of 76 at his Long Island home, following a four-year battle with Merkel Cell skin cancer. He had been hospitalized several times in the year preceding his death, leading to concert cancellations and postponements. Despite his health challenges, he made a surprise appearance on stage just months before his passing, showcasing his enduring love for music.

Personal Life: Wife, Children, and Interests

In 1977, Buffett married Jane Slagsvol, and together they had three children: two daughters, Savannah and Sarah, and a son, Cameron. Prior to marrying Jane, he was married to Margie Washichek from 1969 to 1972. In addition to his music career, Buffett was an avid sailor and pilot, and a passionate environmental activist. His commitment to the environment was recognized when scientists named a newly discovered crustacean after him, Gnathia jimmybuffetti, found in the Florida Keys.

As we remember Jimmy Buffett, we celebrate not only his music but also the joyous spirit he brought to life. His legacy will continue to inspire many to embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle he epitomized.