In the months leading up to his death, Jimmy Buffett faced health problems that forced him to cancel or postpone several performances.
The “Margaritaville” singer, who died Friday at age 76, had been hospitalized for health problems twice in the past year.
In September 2022, Buffett announced on his website that he “must refrain from touring for the remainder of the year”, citing “health issues and a brief hospitalization”, which caused him to cancel his shows in Salt Lake City and Nampa, Idaho, in October, and postpone the performances in Las Vegas to March 2023.
“Per doctor’s orders, he must take this time to recover and heal,” the statement added.
Jimmy Buffett, ‘Margaritaville’ singer, dies at 76
A few months later, in May, the singer and songwriter shared the letter X, formerly known as Twittersaying he was re-admitted to the hospital after a check-up in Boston and would have to postpone an upcoming show in Charleston, South Carolina.
“I had a sudden change of plans this week that affected us all. Two days ago, I just returned from a trip to the Bahamas, thawing out from a California ‘winter tour’ and itching to get to Charleston,” he wrote. “I had to stop in Boston for a check-up, but I ended up back at the hospital to get some issues that needed immediate attention.”
Once again, Buffett did not specify what the health problem was, but noted, “Aging is not for pussies, I promise you.” He then told fans he would return to the stage when he was “well enough to perform”.
The musician concluded his message by thanking his fans for their thoughts and prayers, as well as their loyalty over the years.
Jimmy Buffett hospitalized for ‘problems’ requiring ‘urgent attention’: ‘Aging is not for pussies’
A few days later, Buffett updated fans to let them know he was on the road to recovery by documenting a fishing trip with friends. He said he would also do some rowing and sailing to “get back in good shape”.
The “Come Monday” singer added that when he feels better, he will begin the process of scheduling performances. “I think playing is just as therapeutic for me as it is for the fans to listen and sing along,” he wrote. “I’m looking forward to announcing the new date for Charleston as well as some new shows! Fins up!”
Buffett kept that promise and made a surprise appearance in July during a concert by his friend and longtime member of Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, Mac McAnally, at a bar in Rhode Island. McAnally brought Buffett onstage during his performance of “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” during which concertgoers cheered as they sang along to the song.
“Well, it’s good to see the crowd, let me tell you that,” Buffett told the crowd in one of his last appearances.
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
On Friday night, Buffett’s social media channels and website announced that he “passed away peacefully on the night of September 1 surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs.”
The statement – which was accompanied by a touching photo of Buffett sitting on a boat – added: “He lived his life like a song until his last breath and will be missed immensely.”
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education