Best Jimmy Buffett Songs - Top 10 Tropical Musical Journey
by B Kishwar
Updated Sep 04, 2023
Top 10 Best Jimmy Buffett Songs
1
'Death of an Unpopular Poet'
1973
2
'Come Monday'
1974
3
'A Pirate Looks at Forty'
1974
4
'Margaritaville'
1977
5
'Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes'
1977
6
'Cheeseburger in Paradise'
1978
7
'Son of a Son of a Sailor'
1978
8
'Fins'
1979
9
'One Particular Harbour'
1983
10
'It's Five O'Clock Somewhere,' Alan Jackson featuring Jimmy Buffett
2003
S.No.
Best Jimmy Buffett Songs
Year
Best Jimmy Buffett Songs
"Best Jimmy Buffett Songs" is a collection of some of the most iconic and beloved musical compositions by the legendary American singer-songwriter, Jimmy Buffett. Spanning several decades, these songs encapsulate the essence of Buffett's laidback, coastal, and seafaring vibes, which have resonated with fans worldwide. From the timeless hit "Margaritaville" to the introspective "A Pirate Looks at Forty," this compilation offers a musical journey through the unique storytelling and carefree spirit that define Jimmy Buffett's enduring musical legacy.
1. 'Death of an Unpopular Poet' (1973)
"Death of an Unpopular Poet" is a significant song in Jimmy Buffett's discography, featured on his album "A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean" released in 1973. This song stands out not only for its distinctive title but also for its poignant lyrics and storytelling. It's a testament to Buffett's songwriting prowess that even the legendary Bob Dylan expressed his admiration for this track. Buffett's ability to craft vivid narratives is evident in this song, making it a fan favorite. "Death of an Unpopular Poet" offers a glimpse into the artist's early career and showcases his talent for blending folk and country influences into his unique tropical sound. The song's connection to other celebrated songwriters of the era, as noted by American Songwriter magazine, adds to its historical significance in the realm of folk and country music.
2. 'Come Monday' (1974)
Released in 1974 as part of the album "Living and Dying in 3/4 Time," "Come Monday" marked a turning point in Jimmy Buffett's career. This heartfelt ballad, while not steeped in the seafaring themes that would become synonymous with Buffett's music, resonated with a wide audience. It achieved commercial success, becoming Buffett's first Top 40 hit and playing a pivotal role in propelling his career to new heights. The song's universal theme of longing for a loved one struck a chord with listeners, and its inclusion on Kenny Chesney's 2004 album "When the Sun Goes Down" further cemented its enduring popularity. "Come Monday" showcases Buffett's versatility as a songwriter, demonstrating that he could craft emotionally resonant tunes alongside his signature tropical anthems.
3. 'A Pirate Looks at Forty' (1974)
"A Pirate Looks at Forty" is a standout track from Jimmy Buffett's album "A-1-A," released in 1974. The song has become a staple in Buffett's live performances and holds a special place in the hearts of his fans. Lyrically, it tells the story of a friend reflecting on a life filled with experiences such as drug smuggling, drinking, and chasing women. However, beneath the surface, the song conveys deeper themes of wisdom and resilience. Rolling Stone noted that while the song touches on a life of excess, it ultimately serves as a contemplative exploration of the human condition. Its enduring popularity reflects Buffett's ability to infuse his music with a sense of escapism while simultaneously addressing profound aspects of life, making "A Pirate Looks at Forty" a timeless addition to his repertoire.
4. 'Margaritaville' (1977)
"Margaritaville," released in 1977 as part of Jimmy Buffett's album "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," stands as one of Buffett's most iconic songs. It not only became a chart-topping hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard charts but also became synonymous with Buffett's laidback, carefree lifestyle. The song paints a vivid picture of a fictional beachside paradise, where time stands still, and the worries of the world seem to disappear. With its memorable chorus and relatable lyrics about searching for a lost shaker of salt, "Margaritaville" has become an anthem for those seeking to escape the daily grind and embrace a more relaxed way of life. This song's enduring popularity has led to the creation of an entire Margaritaville brand, including restaurants, casinos, and even retirement communities, all inspired by the song's carefree spirit.
5. 'Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes' (1977)
"Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes" is not just a song; it's also the title track of Jimmy Buffett's 1977 album. This song embodies the core philosophy of the Parrothead lifestyle, where adaptability and a sense of humour are key to navigating life's ups and downs. In the song, Buffett sings about the importance of laughter and the ability to roll with the punches, emphasising that in a world full of chaos and change, the ability to find joy and laughter is essential. The lyrics, "With all of our running and all of our cunning, if we couldn't laugh, we would all go insane," capture the essence of this song, which has resonated with fans for decades. "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes" is not just a song; it's a timeless reminder to embrace life's uncertainties with a smile.
6. 'Cheeseburger in Paradise' (1978)
"Cheeseburger in Paradise" is not only a classic Jimmy Buffett song but also the catalyst for an entire restaurant chain. Released as part of Buffett's 1978 album "Son of a Son of a Sailor," this song struck a chord with audiences and went on to become another Top 40 hit in Buffett's discography. The song's catchy tune and whimsical lyrics describe the simple pleasure of enjoying a delicious cheeseburger in an idyllic setting. Inspired by the song's popularity, Jimmy Buffett opened a chain of "Cheeseburger in Paradise" restaurants, where patrons can indulge in the same carefree spirit described in the song. This culinary venture not only added to Buffett's empire but also solidified the song's status as a beloved classic, synonymous with his brand of laidback coastal living.
7. 'Son of a Son of a Sailor' (1978)
"Son of a Son of a Sailor" is both the title track and one of the standout songs from Jimmy Buffett's 1978 album of the same name. The song encapsulates the essence of a carefree, sea-faring lifestyle that Buffett often sings about. With its melodic harmonies and evocative lyrics, the song takes listeners on a journey to the open sea, as it narrates the adventures of a lawbreaking and carousing friend. Beyond its catchy tune and beachy atmosphere, the song carries a deeper message of resilience and embracing life's ups and downs. It's a testament to Buffett's storytelling prowess and his ability to transport his audience to sun-soaked shores with his music.
8. 'Fins' (1979)
"Fins" is a lively and spirited song featured on Jimmy Buffett's 1979 album, "Volcano." This concert favourite is an amusing tale that warns of the dangers lurking on land, likening them to sharks. The song's infectious rhythm and playful lyrics have made it a staple at Buffett's live performances, where fans often join in with the signature "fins to the left, fins to the right" chant. "Fins" also holds a special place in Buffett's brand, as it inspired the name for LandShark Lager, a beer launched in 2007 by an Anheuser-Busch subsidiary. With its upbeat tempo and the feeling of escapism it provides, "Fins" remains a beloved track in Buffett's extensive repertoire.
9. 'One Particular Harbour' (1983)
"One Particular Harbour" is the title track of Jimmy Buffett's 1983 album and stands out as a return to form for the singer-songwriter. AllMusic.com has described this song as "something like a comeback," noting that it contains some of Buffett's best songs since "Son of a Son of a Sailor." The track captures the free-flowing and laidback vibe that defines Buffett's music. With lyrics that transport listeners to a tropical paradise, it's no wonder that "One Particular Harbour" has become a concert staple and a favourite among Parrotheads, Buffett's devoted fan base. This song showcases Buffett's ability to create a musical paradise of his own, inviting listeners to join him in the escapism that his music offers.
10. 'It's Five O'Clock Somewhere,' Alan Jackson featuring Jimmy Buffett (2003)
"It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" is a hit collaboration between Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, released in 2003 on Jackson's "Greatest Hits Volume II" collection. This upbeat and catchy song embodies the idea that it's never too early to start enjoying life and taking a break. Featuring Buffett's signature laidback style, the song quickly became a hit and went platinum. It also earned Jimmy Buffett his only Grammy award. "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" captures the essence of relaxation and the desire to escape the everyday grind, making it a timeless anthem for those seeking a carefree moment. The song's popularity and enduring appeal have solidified its status as a classic in both artists' discographies.
Which Jimmy Buffett Song Became His Highest Charting Single?
Jimmy Buffett's highest-charting single is the iconic song, "Margaritaville," which became a massive hit and a signature tune in his extensive musical career. Released in 1977 as part of his album "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," "Margaritaville" quickly gained popularity and climbed the music charts.
The song's catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and Buffett's distinctive storytelling style contributed to its success. "Margaritaville" peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1977, marking a significant achievement for Jimmy Buffett. Its widespread appeal went beyond his dedicated fan base, the Parrotheads, and resonated with a broader audience.
The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal theme of escapism and the desire to leave behind the stresses of everyday life. With references to tropical getaways, lost shakers of salt, and that ever-elusive "lost shaker of salt," "Margaritaville" has become an anthem for those seeking a carefree retreat from their daily routines. It has since become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring not only music enthusiasts but also the creation of the Margaritaville brand, which includes restaurants, casinos, cruises, and even retirement communities, all rooted in the laidback and tropical spirit of the song. "Margaritaville" remains a beloved classic, firmly establishing itself as Jimmy Buffett's highest-charting single and a timeless favourite among fans and music enthusiasts alike.
Best Jimmy Buffett Songs - FAQs
"Son of a Son of a Sailor" is both the title track and a standout song from Jimmy Buffett's 1978 album. It encapsulates the essence of his carefree, sea-faring lifestyle and showcases his storytelling prowess, taking listeners on an adventure at sea while carrying a message of resilience.
"Fins" is a lively song from Buffett's 1979 album, "Volcano." It inspired the name for LandShark Lager, a beer launched in 2007 by an Anheuser-Busch subsidiary, contributing to Jimmy Buffett's brand.
"One Particular Harbour" is the title track of Jimmy Buffett's 1983 album and is considered a comeback song. It captures his free-flowing and laidback musical style and has become a concert staple, loved by Parrotheads, his dedicated fan base.
"It's Five O'Clock Somewhere," a hit collaboration with Alan Jackson released in 2003, earned Jimmy Buffett his only Grammy award
"It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" conveys the idea that it's never too early to start enjoying life and taking a break, capturing the essence of relaxation and escapism in Jimmy Buffett's signature laidback style.