Thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans gathered in Key West this weekend to celebrate the man, the singer and the free-spirited songwriter who made “Margaritaville” a state of mind.
Wearing tropical shirts, oversized hats, and flower leis (LAYS), Buffett’s ‘Parrotheads’ strolled and sang their way down Key West’s famed Duval Street. The parade honored the singer’s life one day before the two-year anniversary of his death. It was part of ‘Just a Few Friends Key West’ — a four-day festival created to honor the life, music, and sparkling spirit of Key West’s favorite son, Jimmy Buffett.
“Key West was a little bit of a thank you for him. You know, down here, he found his niche, he found a home, and he found the niche of his poetry and his lyrics that really catapulted him into the masses,” said Lucy Buffett, the singer’s sister, who was in Key West for the tribute to her brother.
The memorial march honoring Buffett’s passing wasn’t a sad occasion; rather, a joyful, tropical tribute filled with music, creativity, and community. The crowd, led by Key West musician Howard Livingston, belted out one of Buffett’s most popular hits, “Margaritaville,” as they sang and sauntered down Key West’s Duval Street.
The celebration took place on the island where Buffett spent some of his most creative years, shaping the ‘tropical rock’ sound and laid-back persona that made him a global icon.
“The vim and the vigor that he brought to everything…that’s part of our genetics in our family,” recalled his sister, Lucy. “And it is sort of seeing the positive about life. And he lived a great life, and he touched a lot of people in really deep ways.”
Buffett discovered Key West in the early 1970s, and the island’s influence is widely credited with inspiring many of his most enduring songs, including his signature hit “Margaritaville.”
Buffett’s portrayal of Key West in his songs has made it a mecca for his fans, who flocked to the Southernmost city in the U.S. this weekend for the ‘Just a Few Friends’ festivities.
The celebration wraps up Monday night after four days of concerts performed by Buffett’s friends and tribute bands, along with beach parties, island tours, sailing trips, and other events reflecting the Key West lifestyle he immortalized in song.
Jimmy was the best! I miss him every day. I thank him for his music, sense of adventure, creativity, love of life. He was such an important influence in my life and hope his music and message about life will live on forever and influence other people forever! You were the best Jimmy! Thank you for your gift to the world. Rest in peace
still haven’t gotten over my sadness.