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.

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.