By Megan Riedlinger
12:52pm PDT, Oct 17, 2023
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Legendary and beloved singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett is dead at 76.
"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," read a statement on his Instagram page.
It was later revealed that the music star passed away following a lengthy battle with Merkel cell skin cancer, a rare and aggressive cancer that he was diagnosed with in 2019.
In the wake of the news, stars in Hollywood, politics and beyond publicly mourned the "Margaritaville" singer…
Keep reading to see how everyone is remembering him…
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"To commemorate his life and legacy, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at the Monroe County Courthouse in Key West, Florida, City of Key West City Hall, and at the State Capitol in Tallahassee, Florida, from 5:00 PM today [Sept. 7] to 5:00 PM on Friday [Sept. 8] … because it's always five o'clock somewhere," read a proclamation from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued on Sept. 7 — nearly a week after the music star died.
"Born in Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Buffett moved to Key West in his early years to build a legacy. An inductee of the Florida Artists Hall of Fame, Buffett captured the Florida lifestyle and entertained generations of Floridians with his relaxed 'Floridays' style that embodied the spirit of the Gulf Coast and Conch Republic," the governor's memo continued, explaining his decision to honor the music star who died at his home in Sag Harbor, New York, on Sept. 1.
MORE: Stars we lost in 2023
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"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.
"So long, Jim. You are a very special man and friend and it was a great privilege to get to know you and love you. Bubbles up, my friend. Love, Paul" –Paul McCartney
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"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." –former President Bill Clinton
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"Fair winds and following seas, dear Jimmy." –former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
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"I grew up listening to @jimmybuffett with my family. His music basically outlined the lives we desired… fishing, diving, dreaming about being in the tropics, playing music, and just living the dream. I met Jimmy in France in 2010 about 8 years or so after my dad died and the first day I told him how much he reminded me of my own father and from that moment on he kind of became a surrogate to me, occasionally calling me from some far off land telling me he missed me and I had to come visit him wherever he was.
"He told me life was too short not to take every good opportunity that came along and go live it. I'm not sure I've met many people with as positive an attitude who were as welcoming and giving as Jimmy has been to me, just one of the many thousands of friends he's had around this world. He laughed about making a living out of 3 chord songs and once told me, 'Ya know, if Jack (@jackjohnson) would just let me do his marketing I could make him a looooot of money!'
"Yesterday Jimmy passed on to the next life. And I'm having a tough time accepting that. But I do feel blessed to have had some really incredible memories every single time I hung out with him, whether it was him flying me to my brother's bachelor party in Key West, joining us for a surf and a dinner in Hossegor, making me play a song with him at his restaurant, or giving me his guest house in Palm Beach for the night and taking me for a round of golf the next day. I really don't want to believe such a fine man is gone but I'm thankful and lucky for the times we had.
"It's 5 o'clock somewhere, Jimmy, and I know you'd be smoking a joint with a drink in your hand and a huge smile on your face like any good pirate would. Thanks for being one of the good guys. It was a real dream to know you. And as he always signed off… Fins Up!" –pro surfer Kelly Slater, who posted a photo of himself smiling alongside Jimmy Buffett on Instagram
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"It's a sad day today. I woke up to the news of Jimmy Buffett's passing. His music has been the soundtrack to my life. Spending a lot of my childhood in South Florida, he was the epitome of a free spirit and lived a lifestyle that we all admired and strived to emulate. My dad was a huge fan of his and his music was always playing in our house, so when I started playing guitar, it was a no brainer that I would learn songs like 'A Pirate Looks at Forty,' 'Come Monday' and 'Havana Daydreaming' among others. You inspired a lot of us Jimmy and you will forever be remembered. RIP brother" –Jason Aldean
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"Just saw @jimmybuffett recently while recording with @EmmylouSongbird and @DollyParton. He was as he always was… a bright light! With a wonderful sense of humor and always so warm. I will miss knowing he is on the planet. He is up there sailing the bright blue Caribbean!" –Sheryl Crow
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"The Godfather of lifestyle. Jimmy started it all and took it farther than anyone. He taught us all how to live. Jimmy taught us all how to wear shorts, flip-flops and a worn out T-shirt, walk on stage or to your favorite restaurant, and be comfortable. Jimmy turned us on to Corona beer, tequila and margaritas. The first time I met Jimmy, he said, 'Oh, you're the guy that's trying to get my job,' and I said, 'Of course, we all want to be you.' Rest in paradise, Mr. Buffett." –Sammy Hagar
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"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." –Elton John
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"Heart broken this morning hearing of Jimmy Buffett's passing. What an incredible talent and man. His songs will live on forever. I'll bet most of y'all don't know that he wrote the theme song for @BarmageddonUSA for me about 2 years ago. Raising a glass today to the Son of a son of a Sailer." –Blake Shelton
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"I'm so sad about the great @jimmybuffett. His music was more than just the lifestyle — it was emotional and iconic. Made the world a better place and always will. Sending love to his family." —Ben Stiller
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"The pirate has passed. RIP Jimmy Buffett. Tremendous influence on so many of us -T" –Toby Keith
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"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. We had the honor to meet and get to know Jimmy over the years, and he was in life as he was performing on stage – full of goodwill and joy, using his gift to bring people together. Jill and I send our love to his wife of 46 years, Jane; to their children, Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron; to their grandchildren; and to the millions of fans who will continue to love him even as his ship now sails for new shores." –President Joe Biden
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"He got the point of all this. Thank you @jimmybuffett for being the soundtrack to the best in life. Heartbroken. But thankful for you. Sail towards that distant horizon." –Brad Paisley
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"Saddened to hear of Jimmy Buffett's passing — best wishes to all of his loved ones. Jimmy was a wonderful entertainer and businessperson — plus a pretty decent tennis player. Here's the story of a classic match we played with Mike Bryan and Rafa Nadal" –British business magnate Richard Branson, who shared a link to a blog post on his website
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"Love and Mercy, Jimmy Buffett" –Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys
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"Your music brought joy to so many people, including me. It was always a pleasure when our paths crossed and we were able to share the stage together. I will hold dear our time spent together on stage, especially you singing 'Kokomo' with us. Your sense of humor and gracious nature was a pleasure to be a round. Although we'll miss you, we'll continue to enjoy the beautiful music that you've blessed upon us. No more shoes, just your toes in heaven's sand." –Mike Love of The Beach Boys
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"I've been going to see Jimmy Buffett for over 30 years. RIP to a man who brought the world so much joy" –Rob McElhenney
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"'Shores distant shores, There's where I'm headed for, I got the stars to guide my way, Sail into the light of day…' #BoatsToBuild RIP my friend, @jimmybuffett" –Alan Jackson
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"Jimmy, you lived life and didn't let life live you. A true pioneer and trailblazer. Thank God for @jimmybuffett and when life gives you limes, make margaritas. Rest in paradise, ACP (Pitbull)" –Pitbull
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"Rest well, Jimmy. Thank you for the teaching us all to live life to the fullest. What a loss." –John Stamos
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"Rest in power @jimmybuffett I'm glad we had time to vibe. You were and always will be a Truly inspiring human." –LL Cool J
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"The king of cool… paradise was wherever Jimmy Buffett was." –Andy Cohen
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"My deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and fans of @jimmybuffett. My shows this weekend are dedicated to the memory of my good friend Jimmy, a great person and amazing storyteller." —Bret Michaels
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"Oh no. This man personified joy. Embodied goodness. Always smiling. I remember the time he met my mom at jazzfest and showered her with love… like he knew her his whole life. Bet he did that millions of times to millions of people. RIP @jimmybuffett" –Hoda Kotb
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"So Saddened To Hear About The Loss Of My Great Friend Jimmy Buffett! 30 Years Of Friendship! He Was An Amazing Entertainer Who Made The World A Better Place! Thank You Jimmy! Rest In Peace!" –Ric Flair
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"Thanks for all the years putting smiles on so many faces including mine. You will be missed @jimmybuffett" –country singer Lee Brice
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"There is a popular audio used for IG reels — 'when you think you're the coolest guy in the parking lot, and then this guy shows up.' Jimmy Buffett was that guy! The coolest, and one of the absolute nicest, guys I ever knew. I was so looking forward to seeing you, and working with you, again Jimmy. Now, I'll look forward to catching a most heavenly sunset with you some day, instead. My eternal respect and gratitude to you, my friend." –Donnie Wahlberg
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"'I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.' – the legend Jimmy Buffett" –Miles Teller, who posted a photo of himself smiling alongside Jimmy Buffett on X
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"rest in peace to the great @jimmybuffett an incredible writer, friend and mentor of life! we will miss him tremendously sending love to his family and to all his beautiful fans. enjoy every cheeseburger." –singer-songwriter Jenny Lewis
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"'He lived a life of song till the very last breath…' A beautiful tribute. Have one with a salt rim for us in the Great After, Jimmy." –George Takei
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"I met Jimmy years ago at an event in Tampa. It was pretty cool [for] me being a fan forever. RIP, sir." –Kevin Sorbo
