Jimmy Buffett dies at 76 : legendary ‘Margaritaville’ singer

Jimmy Buffett dies at 76

Jimmy Buffett, the renowned singer and songwriter known for hits like “Margaritaville” and a catalog of laid-back, beach-inspired soft-rock tunes, has passed away at the age of 76, as confirmed in a statement released on his website and social media channels.

According to the statement, Jimmy “passed away peacefully on the evening of September 1st, surrounded by his family, close friends, music, and beloved dogs.” He lived his life akin to a song until his very last breath, and his absence will be deeply felt by countless admirers.”

Accompanying the announcement was a photograph of Buffett, dressed casually, seated in a boat on the water.

The statement did not disclose the cause of his passing.

Jimmy Buffett’s most iconic hit was “Margaritaville,” but his music formed a lasting connection with generations of devoted fans, paving the way for a business empire that established him as one of America’s wealthiest celebrities.

Buffett’s musical journey commenced as a country singer and street performer in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 2017, during an interview with CBS Sunday Morning’s Tracy Smith, Buffett revisited the city’s French Quarter, where he attributed his career’s foundation to New Orleans. He remarked, “Those years spent here were genuinely formative for me, and it honed my skills as a professional musician. All of this served as my training ground for what was to come.” He also acknowledged that his success might not have materialized without New Orleans’ influence.

Following the triumph of “Margaritaville,” Buffett embarked on decades of touring. He harnessed his commercial success and the unwavering support of his passionate fan base, known as “Parrotheads,” to expand his music into a multifaceted brand. He ventured into the world of business by establishing Margaritaville resorts and restaurants and launching a lifestyle brand. According to Forbes, Buffett’s net worth surpassed one billion dollars, and his concerts reportedly grossed over a million dollars per night.

Buffett continued touring until 2023, with his final listed performance on May 6, 2023, in San Francisco. Approximately two weeks later, he cancelled upcoming late May tour dates in South Carolina due to health issues that required immediate attention. At that time, Buffett humorously noted, “Growing old is not for sissies, I promise you.”

Jimmy Buffett is survived by his wife, Jane Slagsvol, two daughters named Savannah Jane and Sarah Delaney, and a son named Cameron Marley.