Jimmy Buffett, whose sun-drenched songs celebrated life on the beach, died of a rare, aggressive skin cancer, according to a statement on his website.
Buffett, 76, had been suffering from Merkel cell carcinoma, according to the report, which was released after the initial news of his death broke on Saturday. The report also revealed where the “Margaritaville” singer died: at his home in New York’s Sag Harbor, near the Hamptons.
He has been battling cancer for four consecutive years and last made a surprise appearance in Rhode Island in early July, the statement said.
According to the federal National Cancer Institute and the Mayo Clinic, Merkel cell carcinoma, as it is known in the medical literature, is extremely rare and spreads quickly, including to parts of the body beyond the skin. Risk factors include lots of sun exposure, a weakened immune system, a history of other cancers, and fair skin and being over 50.
In songs like “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” and “Margaritaville,” Buffett made a lifestyle of sand between his toes. He developed the latter into a brand that includes restaurants, apparel, casinos and more.
