About the song

“Margaritaville” is a classic hit by the renowned American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, released in 1977. This iconic song was written by Buffett himself and is featured on his album “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes.” Known for its laid-back vibe and catchy melody, “Margaritaville” has become one of Buffett’s most enduring and beloved tunes.

The song tells the story of a protagonist who finds himself stranded in a tropical paradise, indulging in margaritas and reflecting on his carefree lifestyle. With its relatable lyrics and infectious chorus, “Margaritaville” captures the essence of escapism and the desire to embrace the simple pleasures of life.

Upon its release, “Margaritaville” soared to the top of the charts, reaching the number eight position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also earned Buffett his first Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, further solidifying its status as a classic.

The album “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” was a commercial success, thanks in part to the popularity of “Margaritaville.” It peaked at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and remains one of Buffett’s most acclaimed albums.

For many listeners, “Margaritaville” has become an anthem of relaxation and escapism, evoking images of sandy beaches and cool ocean breezes. Its timeless appeal has led to numerous covers and adaptations, further cementing its place in the musical landscape.

“Margaritaville” continues to be a staple of Buffett’s live performances and remains a favorite among fans of all ages. Its upbeat rhythm and memorable lyrics serve as a reminder to embrace life’s simple pleasures and to always take time to unwind and enjoy the moment.

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Lyrics

Nibbling on sponge cake
Watching the sun bake
All of those tourists covered with oil
Strumming my six-string
On my front porch swing
Smell those shrimp, well, they’re beginning to boil
Oh, crawfish in New Orleans, yeah
Wasting away again in Margaritaville
Searching for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
But I know, it’s nobody’s fault
I don’t know the reason
Stayed up all season
With nothing to show but a brand-new tattoo
But it’s a real beauty
A Mexican cutie
How it got here, I haven’t a clue, I really don’t know
Wasting away again in Margaritaville
Searching for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
But I think it could be my fault, maybe, just maybe
I blew out my flip-flop (how?)
Stepped on a pop top
I broke my leg twice, had to limp on back home
God, I still feel pain
I wish I had some cocaine
But that’s been gone since early this morn’ (long gone)
Wasting away again in Margaritaville (yes, I am, yes, I am, I’m)
Searching for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
And I know, it’s my own damn fault
Yeah
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
There always is and I know
It’s my own damn fault
Thank you
Alright
This is the original Coral Reefer Band up here now
Everybody having a good time, so far, out there?
Me too
Yeah, this is the way it started out
Yeah, we’re gonna get to all those songs now
We’re gonna do ’em one at a time
This is a song, that, uh
We’ll do this for two sections in the country tonight that are called LA
One of them is out in California
The other is lower Alabama, where I come from, that LA
Affectionately known in some circles as the Redneck Riviera, and ah
Song about where it all came from
And we’ll, uh, do this for anybody out there
Who also went through a Catholic education and the altar boy system