US President Joe Biden is one of many public figures and musicians to pay tribute to late singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, who died on September 1, 2023 at the age of 76.
“A poet of paradise, Jimmy Buffett was an American music icon who inspired generations to step back and find the joy in life and in one another,” Biden said in a White House statement.
“His witty, wistful songs celebrate a uniquely American cast of characters and seaside folkways, weaving together an unforgettable musical mix of country, folk, rock, pop, and calypso into something uniquely his own.”
Matt Sayles/AP
Jimmy Buffett performs at the after party for the premiere of Jurassic World in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2015. The Margaritaville singer-songwriter has died at age 76.
Biden said he and his wife Jill had the honour of meeting and getting to know Buffett over the years. “He was in life as he was performing on stage – full of goodwill and joy, using his gift to bring people together.”
And singer-songwriter Sir Elton John wrote on an Instagram story: “Jimmy Buffett was a unique and treasured entertainer. His fans adored him and he never let them down. This is the saddest of news. A lovely man gone way too soon. Condolences to Jane and the family from David and me.”
Dave Martin/AP
Jimmy Buffett performs at his sister’s restaurant in Gulf Shores, Ala., on June 30, 2010.
Sir Paul McCartney was another musician who took to social media, writing in a long post on X (formerly Twitter) with a photo of the pair together: “It seems that so many wonderful people are leaving this world, and now Jimmy Buffett is one of them. I’ve known Jimmy for some time and found him to be one of the kindest and most generous people.
“I remember once on holiday when I had forgotten to bring my guitar and was itching to play. He said he would get me one of his, but I said, ‘I’m left-handed’. So, Jimmy had his roadie restring one of his guitars which he loaned me for the duration of the holiday. He then followed this act of generosity by giving me my own beautiful left-handed guitar that had been made by one of his guitar-making pals. It’s a beautiful instrument, and every time I play it now it’ll remind me of what a great man Jimmy was.
“He had a most amazing lust for life and a beautiful sense of humour. When we swapped tales about the past his were so exotic and lush and involved sailing trips and surfing and so many exciting stories that it was hard for me to keep up with him.
“Right up to the last minute his eyes still twinkled with a humour that said, ‘I love this world and I’m going to enjoy every minute of it’.
“So many of us will miss Jimmy and his tremendous personality. His love for us all, and for mankind as a whole.
“Last, but not least, is his songwriting and vocal ability. If someone made an interesting remark he repeated it in his gorgeous Louisiana drawl and said, ‘That’s a good idea for a song’. Most times it didn’t take too long for that song to appear. I was very happy to have played on one of his latest songs called ‘My Gummy Just Kicked In’. We had a real fun session and he played me some of his new songs. One, in particular, I loved was the song, ‘Bubbles Up’. And I told him that not only was the song great but the vocal was probably the best I’ve heard him sing ever. He turned a diving phrase that is used to train people underwater into a metaphor for life when you’re confused and don’t know where you are just follow the bubbles – they’ll take you up to the surface and straighten you out right away.”
Former president Bill Clinton also wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Jimmy Buffett’s music brought happiness to millions of people. I’ll always be grateful for his kindness, generosity, and great performances through the years, including at the White House in 2000. My thoughts are with his family, friends and legion of devoted fans.”
Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys also paid tribute to the musician, saying: “Love and Mercy, Jimmy Buffett.”
A statement posted to Buffett’s official website and social media pages said: “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs. He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”
The statement did not say where Buffett died or give a cause of death. Illness had forced him to reschedule concerts in May and Buffett acknowledged in social media posts that he had been hospitalised, but provided no specifics.
