Key West has always been a magnet for some of the world’s most notable names — from Blackbeard the pirate and literary icons like Ernest Hemingway, to mega performers like Kenny Chesney.
In November 1971, aspiring Mississippi-born country singer Jimmy Buffett migrated to Key West from Nashville to help jumpstart his career. It may have been one of the best moves he ever made. The island’s influence on Buffett’s music was indelible, and he became an early pioneer of the Trop Rock movement.
As the story goes, Buffett got his start at Key West’s storied Chart Room Bar at the Pier House Resort. It was here that Buffett performed some of his earliest works in exchange for free drinks. Of course, the Chart Room was just one of many Key West venues that were touchstones for Jimmy Buffett’s magic. Sloppy Joes, The Green Parrot, Hogs Breath, Capt Tony’s, and the former Crazy Ophelia’s Cafe (now Antonia’s Restaurant) all bear his mark.
But it was Jimmy Buffett’s 1977 hit song, “Margaritaville,” that really jettisoned him to stardom and transformed Key West into a world-famous dream destination. Penned on the Seven Mile Bridge during bumper-to-bumper traffic, Buffett’s song became his signature anthem and a symbol of Key West’s free-spirited lifestyle.
As Key West’s favorite son, Jimmy Buffett’s indomitable impact on our tiny island is legendary. And to celebrate his legacy, the city is staging its 2nd annual tribute to him over Labor Day Weekend.
“Just A Few Friends Key West: A Favorite Son Celebration,” kicks off on Friday, August 29, and runs through Monday, September 1. The lively tribute includes a colossal array of events, including Walking Tours, Outdoor Concerts, Sunset & Music Cruises, and a slew of other fun activities. On Sunday, you can enjoy the epic Second Line Parade, which culminates with a free music festival at Truman Waterfront Park. Come Monday, the weekend wraps up with a Pencil Thin Mustache Contest, Sunset Music Cruise, and so much more.
You’ve just gotta love it — we know Jimmy would! For a full calendar of events, hit up: justafewfriendskeywest.com.
