James William Buffett, an American singer-songwriter, musician, author, and businessman, is renowned for his music that embodies an “island escapism” lifestyle. He has a dedicated fan base known as “Parrotheads” and has achieved chart-topping success with hits like “Margaritaville” and “Come Monday,” the former of which ranks 234th on the Recording Industry Association of America’s list of “Songs of the Century.”
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Buffett is a bestselling author and has ventured into the restaurant business with the Margaritaville Cafe chain and the now defunct Cheeseburger in Paradise chain. As of 2023, his net worth stands at an impressive $1 billion, making him one of the world’s wealthiest musicians.
Born on December 25, 1946, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buffett spent part of his early life in Mobile, Alabama, and later moved to Fairhope, Alabama. His love for sailing, instilled by his grandfather, played a significant role in shaping his music style. He pursued higher education at Auburn University, Pearl River Community College, and the University of Southern Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history in 1969.
Buffett’s personal life includes two marriages, one to Margie Washichek and another to Jane Slagsvol, with whom he has two daughters and an adopted son. The family resides in Sag Harbor, New York, and Palm Beach, Florida, while Buffett also owns a home on the Caribbean island of Saint Barts.
The artist is known for his adventurous spirit, often spending summers traversing the East Coast on his sailboat and frequently flying his own Dassault Falcon 900 during concert tours and global travels. Over the years, Buffett has owned various aircraft, including a Boeing Stearman, Cessna Citation, Lake Amphibian, and Grumman Albatross.
Buffett survived a plane crash in August 1994 when his Grumman G-44 Widgeon nosed over while attempting to take off in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Fortunately, he suffered only minor injuries and managed to swim to safety.
In 2015, Buffett received an honorary doctorate in music from the University of Miami and delivered a memorable speech during the graduation ceremony. Ever the epitome of his carefree persona, he encouraged graduates to embrace life’s adventures, as depicted in his song “The Pascagoula Run.”
Buffett actively supports the Democratic Party and has hosted fundraisers for Democratic politicians, including a notable event for Hillary Clinton in 2016.