Iconic musician Jimmy Buffett - whose unique blend of country, rock, and tropical vibes provided an escape for countless fans around the world - has sadly passed away at the age of 76.
A statement posted to Buffett's official website revealed that the music legend passed away on Friday, surrounded by his loved ones. It read:
"Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st 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."
TMZ reports that sources claim Buffett "had been sick for a while and he was recently receiving hospice care".
As we bid farewell to the man who invited us all to the proverbial 'Margaritaville', we take a moment to celebrate his vibrant life and groundbreaking career.
Born James William Buffett on December 25, 1946, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Jimmy Buffett displayed a penchant for music from a young age. Growing up in Mobile, Alabama, he developed a love for the Southern lifestyle, which would later influence his music.
Buffett first gained mainstream popularity in the 1970s with hits like 'Margaritaville' and 'Come Monday'. His music often transported listeners to a beachside paradise, celebrating a carefree lifestyle that resonated with a wide audience.
Over the course of his long career, Buffett released more than 30 albums, several of which have been certified gold or platinum. In 2003, Buffett received the Country Music Association Award for Vocal Event of the Year for his duet with Alan Jackson for the track, 'It's Five O'Clock Somewhere'. Amazingly, this was his first music award, despite his lengthy career.
Buffett’s dedicated fans earned themselves the affectionate nickname of "Parrotheads", following a concert in 1985 in which many fans wore Hawaiian shirts and parrot hats. His fans often celebrate Buffett's escapist themes through tailgate parties, fan gatherings, and even 'Parrothead' clubs.
Following the overwhelming success of the track 'Margaritaville', Buffett turned the track into prosperous business ventures, with his brand lunching Margaritaville restaurants, hotels, and merchandise, proving that the Margaritaville mindset was more than just a song, but a lifestyle fans wanted to be apart of.
Outside of the music and business worlds, Jimmy married Jane Slagsvol in 1977, and the couple went on to welcome three children. Despite his public persona, Buffett is known for keeping his personal life private, a rare quality in the age of oversharing celebrities.
As we bid farewell to a music legend, let's raise a margarita to the man who taught us all that "it's 5 o'clock somewhere."
Our thoughts are with Buffett's family, friends, and fans at this time.
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