American singer and entrepreneur Jimmy Buffett is dead. According to the musician’s official website, Buffett “passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st, surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs.” A cause of death is not given. Buffett “lived his life like a song until his last breath” and “will be missed beyond measure by a great many people,” the singer-songwriter’s website and social networks said.
Buffett recorded his biggest hit, Margaritaville, in 1977. The song describes the lifestyle of a so-called “beach bum”, i.e. a idler who spends his life on the beach. Over the course of his long and distinguished career, Buffett has recorded over 50 live and studio albums. The tours of the musician also enjoyed great popularity. His fans were known as “Parrot Heads”.
At the same time, the singer transformed the lifestyle described in songs like “Margaritaville” into numerous successful business ventures. He opened cafes, restaurants and hotels. Licensed Margaritaville tequila, apparel and edibles are also available for purchase. At the beginning of this year, Forbes magazine estimated Buffett’s fortune at one billion US dollars (the equivalent of around 926 million euros).
The singer and entrepreneur also excelled as a bestselling author. For example, the short story collection Tales from Margaritaville (1989) and the novel Where Is Joe Merchant? to big sales. Born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buffett is survived by his longtime wife Jane, their children Savannah, Sarah and Cameron, and two grandchildren.
