Jimmy Buffett was an American singer-songwriter, musician, author, and businessman who was best known for his music that portrays an “island escapism” lifestyle. He has a devoted base of fans known as “Parrotheads” who enjoy his laid-back attitude and good-time energy. He was also a successful entrepreneur who has created various businesses inspired by his hit song “Margaritaville”, such as a resort, a restaurant chain, a beer brand, and retirement communities. He was one of the world’s richest musicians, with a net worth of $1 billion as of 2023.
Jimmy Buffett was born on December 25, 1946, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and spent part of his childhood in Mobile and Fairhope, Alabama. He began playing guitar during his first year at Auburn University before continuing his college years at Pearl River Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he received a bachelor’s degree in history in 1969. He married Jane Slagsvol in 1977 and they have three children: Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron.
Jimmy Buffett started his musical career in Nashville, where he tried to make it as a singer. In 1977, he achieved fame with his song “Margaritaville”, a homage to beach life that became a classic anthem for many people. He also recorded other popular songs such as “Come Monday” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise”.
He wrote several bestselling books, such as Tales from Margaritaville and Where was Joe Merchant?. He also appeared in movies and TV shows, such as Jurassic World and Hawaii Five-O. He was an avid sailor and pilot, owning multiple aircraft, including a Dassault Falcon 900 that he often used during concert tours and travel. He also survived a plane crash in 1994 with minor injuries.
“The Big 8”
Before 2003, songs almost always played at every Buffett show were known as the Big 8. The “Big 8” were:
"Margaritaville"
"Come Monday"
"Fins"
"Volcano"
"A Pirate Looks at Forty"
"Cheeseburger in Paradise"
"Why Don't We Get Drunk"
"Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes"
Jimmy Buffett was a legend who has inspired millions of people with his music. He has lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many when he passed. As he once said: “Don’t try to describe the ocean if you’ve never seen it.”