Jimmy Buffett, the beloved singer known for his hit song “Margaritaville” and the Margaritaville lifestyle brand, has passed away at the age of 76. He had been battling illness and was hospitalized recently. Sources suggest that skin cancer, diagnosed four years ago, had developed into lymphoma, leading to his decline.
In a statement on his website, it was announced that Jimmy passed away on September 1, surrounded by his family, friends, and beloved dogs. He lived a vibrant life and will be dearly missed by many.
Jimmy Buffett, originally from Mississippi and raised in Alabama, made his mark in the music industry in 1970 and achieved widespread fame with his hit song “Margaritaville” in 1977. Over the years, he released more than 50 albums featuring other popular tracks like “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.”
He was known for his beach-bum style and tirelessly toured to the delight of his fans. Despite never winning a Grammy, “Margaritaville” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2016.
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Jimmy Buffett’s influence extended beyond music. He built the Margaritaville brand, which made him a billionaire, offering resorts, a beer brand, iced tea, tequila, rum, home decor, and restaurants like the Margaritaville Restaurant and the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill. He also launched Radio Margaritaville online in 1998, which later joined Sirius’ satellite radio.
In addition to his music and business ventures, Buffett authored best-selling fiction and non-fiction books, appeared on television and in movies, and even saw his work adapted into a Broadway musical, “Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville,” in 2017.
He made memorable cameo appearances in movies like Jurassic World and TV shows like Hawaii Five-O and Blue Bloods.
Tributes from prominent figures poured in after his passing. Former President Bill Clinton, along with many others, expressed their gratitude for his performances and impact. President Joe Biden praised Jimmy as an American music icon who brought people together through his music.
Elton John remembered him as a unique and treasured entertainer, and many others in the entertainment industry paid their respects, highlighting his legendary status and the joy he brought to his fans.
The Miami Heat, where he was a long-time season ticket member, honored his spirit and love of life. Jimmy Buffett is survived by his wife, Jane Slagsvol, and three children, Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron.
In 2021, he shared his thoughts about Margaritaville, explaining that it was a place he imagined, inspired by his experiences in Key West, where he could relax by the beach when not touring. His music and lifestyle will always be remembered and cherished by fans worldwide.
