American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, most famous for his 1970s chart-topper Margaritaville, passed away at the age of 76. A statement on his website stated that Jimmy had peacefully departed on the night of September 1, in the presence of his family, close companions, the ambiance of his music, and his beloved dogs.
The reason for Buffett's passing remained undisclosed, although he had been hospitalized in the past few months.
Buffett hailed from the US state of Mississippi but grew up in nearby Alabama before relocating to Nashville, Tennessee. He had worked for the music and entertainment publication Billboard, nurturing aspirations of pursuing a career as a country singer. Afterward, he relocated to Florida, where he played an important role in pioneering the tropical rock genre, eventually pushing it into the mainstream.
Buffett achieved significant musical success through his 1977 album "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," featuring the chart-topping hit "Margaritaville," which remained on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for an impressive 22 weeks.
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Among his other notable hits are "Fins," "Come Monday," and "Son of a Son of a Sailor."
Buffett received two Grammy nominations and demonstrated prolific creativity with the release of over 20 albums. Just this year, he unveiled a forthcoming project he had recorded.
Additionally, his music served as the foundation for the Broadway musical "Escape to Margaritaville," which premiered in 2018. Buffett's musical legacy, intertwined with the laid-back "beach bum" ethos he championed, cultivated an ardent fan base numbering in the millions, affectionately self-identified as Parrotheads.
In addition to being a musician, Buffett had a successful career as an author and entrepreneur. He established a series of well-received resorts, clubs, restaurants, merchandise shops, and retirement communities under the Margaritaville brand.
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His net worth is estimated to be approximately $1 billion (£794 million), according to recently released figures.
Buffett is survived by his wife, Jane, and their three children.
