REMEMBERING JIMMY BUFFETT (Executive Session)

Congressional Record Vol. 169, No. 147
(Senate - September 12, 2023) PDF

  Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
remarkable life of a legendary native of Mississippi whose music is 
synonymous with the spirit of summertime and enjoying life: Jimmy 
Buffett.

  Born in Pascagoula, MS, Jimmy Buffett's journey began in the heart of 
the South. His music touches the heart of those well beyond Mississippi 
or the South, but there is no denying Jimmy's music embodies the very 
essence of the South, with its warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and 
distinctive charm.

  Jimmy's early years were filled with the sights and sounds of 
Mississippi. The Sun shining over the Gulf of Mexico and many other 
beautiful experiences of the South would later inspire some of his most 
beloved songs.

  But it was Jimmy's great appetite for adventure that ultimately 
propelled him to worldwide fame. He embarked on a journey that would 
take him to the Florida Keys, the Caribbean, and beyond those changes 
in latitudes. Amid more than 40 musical tours throughout his career, he 
churned his talents into a diverse business empire and charitable 
works.

  As we reflect on the legacy of this son of a son of a sailor, we 
cannot help but be inspired by Jimmy Buffett's unyielding commitment to 
following his dreams and embracing life. His songs transport us to 
sandy beaches, where the stresses of life fade away. He reminds us that 
sometimes we all need to kick back, relax, and take a moment to savor 
the simple pleasures of life. As Jimmy would put it, ``it's 5 o'clock 
somewhere.''

  In honoring Jimmy Buffett, we celebrate the man who, through his 
music, brought us with him on many of his adventures around the Sun, 
from the Pascagoula Run to the shores of paradise, and we are all 
better for it.

  I have so much gratitude for the joy, laughter, and the inspiration 
that Jimmy Buffett brought into so many Americans' lives. His music is 
a timeless reminder that no matter where we come from, we can all find 
a bit of paradise within ourselves, and, come Monday, it will be all 
right.

  Jimmy Buffett is a true southern storyteller who was generous enough 
to share his piece of paradise with the world. I have no doubt his 
legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

  I yield the floor.

   
  
 

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