Home/NBA

via Imago

via Imago

Few artists possess the longevity to capture the imagination of their audience across generations. Today the world lost one of its finest. Such was his reach that U.S. President Joe Biden, Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, NBA legend Rex Chapman, and countless admirers have come together to mourn the tragic loss of this extraordinary musical artist whose brand made him a billionaire.

Jimmy Buffett, the American singer-songwriter, and an icon in its truest sense, is the man behind colorful melodies and sun-soaked tales that went on to become the soundtrack of countless lives. The iconic singer and entrepreneur left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who cherished his music, artistry, and contributions to popular culture. Buffett is survived by his wife, Jane, and daughters, Savannah and Sarah, and son, Cameron.

President Joe Biden joins Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in mourning sudden loss of billionaire artist

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Jimmy Buffett sprung to fame with his beach rock song, Margaritaville released on Feb. 14, 1977. On Friday, his official website confirmed the news of his passing. “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music, and dogs.” On his social media, a post was shared stating, “He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”

Although the cause of death has not yet been revealed, sources say that the singer had ongoing health issues for the past few months, for which he had also canceled concerts. The Mississippi-born singer’s death left many in mourning, specifically Wrexham co-owner Rob McElhenney. He posted a childhood picture on the social media platform X and wrote, “I’ve been going to see Jimmy Buffett for over 30 years. RIP to a man who brought the world so much joy.”

His tweet caught the eye of Ryan Reynolds, who paid respects by liking his fellow Wrexham co-owner’s tweet. Subsequently, NBA legend Rex Chapman also expressed his sadness by commenting three heartbroken emojis. Later, McElhenney posted the same picture again on Instagram and wrote, “Me going to see Jimmy Buffett in 1995 and 2018. Same outfits. Same good times. RIP.”

President Joe Biden also took to X to mourn the saddening loss of Buffett. “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.” Mr. Biden expressed how honored he was to meet an artist like Buffett. He also sent his love to his family on behalf of his wife, Jill Biden.

These messages pay a heartfelt tribute to Buffett, who had a remarkable career in the music industry. Jimmy Buffett started small, working at Billboard magazine with dreams of making a career out of his country tunes. Later, after having moved to Florida, Buffett pioneered a fresh new tropical sound, inspiring the likes of John Jackson.

WATCH THIS STORY: Top Footballers That Ryan Reynolds Poached After Acquiring Wrexham

Garnering two Grammy Award nominations and numerous Country Music Awards, he made a name for himself by touring his folk-country tunes across the United States during the 1970s. Notably, over six decades, Buffett released more than twenty albums and performed countless concerts.

Jimmy Buffett: The man of many hats.

Jimmy Buffett made his breakthrough with the iconic track “Margaritaville,” from the 1977 album Changes in Latitudes and Changes in Attitudes. He then went on to produce other widely popular songs such as “It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and “Son of a Son of a Sailor.” Beyond his musical talents, Buffett exhibited remarkable business acumen, establishing the Margaritaville brand beyond anyone’s wildest expectations.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jimmy Buffett (@jimmybuffett)

His tropical-themed business empire had a restaurant franchise, a hotel chain, a boutique tequila, T-shirts, and footwear, which collectively drove him into the billionaire class. The word Margaritaville would become synonymous with the icon. So much so that he’s done a Broadway play based on the same name. Buffett is also a best-selling author with his most popular book titled “Tales from Margaritaville” which is a collection of short stories based on songs.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Hardcore fans will remember his deep passion for the open air and flying aircrafts. His aviation enthusiasm had him encounter a narrow shave in Jamaica, and he recounted his experience in the hit song “Jamaica Mistaica”. His passion for the elements isn’t relegated to the sky but extends to the seas as well, with the icon singing many songs about his underwater explorations, including deep-sea diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Buffett’s passions spanned the skies and the seven seas, but that never stopped him from helping those in need through his charity “Singing for Change”. Truly a remarkable man, and his legacy will live on through his work.

READ MORE: “Get in There Lads” – Hours After $350,000,000 Ryan Reynolds’ Dealt Blow, Wrexham Brushes Past Tranmere Rovers in League Two, Exciting Fans