Arrgh! The mighty minstrel, Jimmy Buffett, hath set sail fer Davy Jones' locker at th' ripe age o' 76. He be livin' his life like a shanty, 'til his final gasp!
2023-09-02
Arr, me hearties, the legendary scallywag Jimmy Buffett hath crossed the great divide on Friday, at the ripe age of 76. After sailin' the seas o' music for nigh 50 years, he found his final rest, embraced by his kin, mates, merry tunes, and faithful hounds.
Legendary singer and songwriter Jimmy Buffett, known for hits like "Margaritaville," has passed away at the age of 76 after battling an undisclosed health issue since 2022. According to a statement posted on his website and social media accounts, Buffett died peacefully in the company of his loved ones. His cause and place of death have not been disclosed.Buffett leaves behind his wife Jane Slagsvol and their three children. The musician had been struggling with a health issue since last year, resulting in the cancellation of several shows. In May and June 2023, he canceled more concerts to address medical issues requiring immediate attention.
In addition to his iconic hit "Margaritaville," Buffett released several other popular songs in the 1970s and 1980s. Born on Christmas Day 1946 in Mississippi, Buffett began playing guitar while attending Auburn University and later earned a degree in history from the University of Southern Mississippi. His musical style shifted from country to Calypso folk-pop after a trip to Key West.
Buffett's influence extended beyond music. He opened his first Margaritaville store in Key West in 1985 and expanded his business empire to include resorts, restaurants, apparel, and even retirement communities. The Margaritaville brand was estimated to have over $4.8 billion in development and $1.5 billion in annual sales in 2017.
With 30 albums, Buffett also launched his own record label, Margaritaville Records, and was involved in film and TV through musical contributions and cameos. His net worth was estimated at $1 billion in June 2023.
Jimmy Buffett's death marks the end of an era in music, leaving behind a legacy of catchy tunes, a laid-back lifestyle, and a thriving business empire that embodied the spirit of "island escapism."