Assignment 5-1

Figure 1. Jimmy Buffett. Retrieved June 17, 2010, from http://www.freeticketclassifieds.com/pictures/listings/14188_27.jpg

Jimmy Buffett is a singer, author, movie producer, businessman and songwriter. He is best known for his music which takes his extremely loyal fans, Parrotheads, away to an “island lifestyle”. He still tours every summer and releases new music every few years. He has his own channel on Sirius Radio called Radio Margaritaville. All of his concerts are broadcasted live on Radio Margaritaville. This allows his fans to listen to every concert and escape to the world of Jimmy Buffett (Eng, 1996).

Jimmy Buffett’s song Margaritaville has helped to make him a popular culture icon. He has turned Margaritaville into a highly profitable franchise. Margaritaville is his most popular song and represents summer and being carefree for all of his fans. He owns a chain of restaurants named Margaritaville that are located worldwide. Each restaurant is themed with his music and beach bum persona.

Jimmy Buffett has used his popularity and loyal fans to branch out into other areas of business. There is a line of Margaritaville food and liquor. He is part owner in two minor league baseball teams. Harrah’s Entertainment built a Margaritaville casino and hotel in Mississippi. There is a Margaritaville hotel that is opening this month in Pensacola Florida. He has even produced his own beer called Land Shark Lager. He has authored several books and starred in the movie Hoot.

Jimmy Buffett’s business successes and music career have symbolized the American Dream myth. He grew up in Alabama and attended Catholic school. He grew up to become the symbol of summer parties and good times. His hard work and persistence during the low periods of his music career have made him into an American legend. He now owns multiple homes, multiple boats, airplanes and has amassed a sizeable fortune.

His music and legend will live on through his loyal fans and through his restaurants and business holdings. He will always represent the carefree lifestyle that so many people in today’s society desperately crave.


References

Eng, S. (1996). Jimmy buffett : The man from margaritaville revealed (1st ed.). New York: St. Martin's Press.