Jimmy Buffet’s cause of death revealed as heartfelt tributes continue to pour in

As Parrotheads across the globe grapple with the loss of beloved singer Jimmy Buffett, it can now be revealed that the Margaritaville hitmaker died following a four-year battle with Merkel Cell skin cancer.

The 76-year-old known for his laid-back tunes, coastal lifestyle anthems, and a love for celebrating life’s simple pleasures, left a void in the music industry when he passed away peacefully on Friday, September 1.

The news of Buffett’s passing was confirmed by his family on his official website, at the time no cause of death was revealed.

“Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs,” the statement read.

“He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”

While the earlier statement specified no cause of death, it has since been updated to reveal his long battle with skin cancer.

“The beloved singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett passed away at his home in Sag Harbor, Long Island on Friday September 1, 2023 surrounded by family and friends. Buffett, 76, had been fighting Merkel Cell Skin Cancer for four years,” the statement read.

“He continued to perform during treatment, playing his last show, a surprise appearance in Rhode Island, in early July.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that usually appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule, often on your face, head or neck” and “often develops in older people”.

As the world learns the circumstances behind the passing of the iconic artist, heartfelt tributes and fond memories continue to flood in from fans and fellow musicians alike.

Took me a couple days to pull together any kind of thoughts on the passing of #JimmyBuffett I loved his music, his concerts, the community he created among Parrotheads, and the longed for world his songs evoked. Thanks, Jimmy.https://t.co/lqGJapIGv8 pic.twitter.com/or760kmE4W

— JD Phillippi (@phlipsidejdp) September 4, 2023

We lost a colorful thread that changed the fabric of this country. Thank you to Jimmy Buffett!

— Arne Anderson (@ArneAnderson3) September 4, 2023

Our prayers are with the family of Jimmy Buffett and rest in peace Jimmy Buffett!!!!#Thefive

— Rpjulie (@Rpjulie1) September 4, 2023

Thank you Jimmy for your songs !!! God Bless you!!

— Sandie Russell (@SandieRussell14) September 4, 2023

“Sunshine personified. I never met a human being that didn’t like him. He’ll be greatly missed.”#JimmyBuffett pic.twitter.com/hBpAcbn1SG

— Bob Seger (@BobSeger) September 2, 2023

Key West pays tribute to the legendary Jimmy Buffett who left us on Sept. 1. Thousands gathered on Duval Street for a march honoring the man who put “Margaritaville” on the map. ???????? #JimmyBuffett #KeyWest #Margaritaville pic.twitter.com/AogyoycyIc

— The Florida Keys (@thefloridakeys) September 4, 2023

“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. pic.twitter.com/6j6NrPSRXJ

— Alan Jackson (@OfficialJackson) September 2, 2023

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 (@BenStiller) September 2, 2023

A lot of people will remember Jimmy Buffett for his beachy party songs. Sure. But for my family, and maybe even yours, he was the soundtrack to some of life’s most special moments ❤️ pic.twitter.com/lka52kGEzd

— Jennifer Meckles (@jennifermeckles) September 4, 2023

Born on Christmas Day in 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buffett’s musical journey began in Nashville in the late 1960s. Initially pursuing a career in country music, he released his debut album, Down to Earth, in 1970, showcasing a country-infused folk-rock style.

A pivotal moment in his career came in 1971 when he opened for Dianne Davidson at a Nashville club, the Exit/In, thanks to a chance audition. It was during this time that he was introduced to Key West, where he fell in love with the laid-back island life, shaping his persona. Settling in Key West, he played at the Chart Room Bar, fusing country, rock, folk, calypso, and pop into what became known as “gulf and western” or tropical rock.

Inspired by Caribbean visits, Buffett’s 1977 album Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes brought international stardom with the iconic hit Margaritaville. Throughout the years, he remained prolific, even branching into literature and opening a  series of restaurants.