PALM BEACH -- Jimmy Buffett built not only a musical career but a business empire off the vision of Margaritaville. He died Friday at age 76.
Although born in Mississippi, Buffett personified the laidback Florida Keys lifestyle. He arrived in Key West in the early 70s through hits like "Margaritaville," "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes", and the devoted fandom of the Parrotheads. He parlayed that into Margaritaville Resorts and other business ventures that raised his net worth from millions to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Buffett also played a major role in promoting conservation in Florida, co-founding the Save the Manatee Club with former governor and U.S. senator Bob Graham. He also performed at campaign rallies, usually for Democrats.
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