Jimmy Buffett

Not in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Eligible since: 1996

First Recording: 1970

Previously Considered? No  what's this?

Jimmy Buffett
HALL OF FAME INDICATORS
🔲Rolling Stone 500 Albums
🔲Rolling Stone 500 Songs
Rolling Stone Cover
Saturday Night Live
🔲Major Festival Headliner
🔲Songwriters Hall of Fame
🔲“Big Four” Grammys
Nat'l Recording Registry

Essential Albums (?)WikipediaYouTube
Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes (1977)
Son of a Son of a Sailor (1978)
Volcano (1979)

Essential Songs (?)WikipediaYouTube
Come Monday (1974)
Margaritaville (1977)
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes (1977)
Cheeseburger in Paradise (1978)
Son of a Son of a Sailor (1978)
Volcano (1979)
Fins (1979)

Jimmy Buffett @ Wikipedia

Will Jimmy Buffett be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?
"Musical excellence is the essential qualification for induction."
Yes: 
No :


Comments

40 comments so far (post your own)

Donna summers please!!
He should have been inducted years ago

Posted by sam on Sunday, 02/17/2013 @ 10:29am


Margaritaville

Posted by Roy on Friday, 05/3/2013 @ 10:39am


How can such a creative and unique tallent be left
out yet no tallent trash like Devo be in the hof?
how many songs did they wright?
How many stadiums are they selling out?
How many artist have a 50 year career and are h
hotter now than they were 20years ago?

Posted by stan burnett on Monday, 09/23/2013 @ 20:00pm


Gee Stan, I wish Devo was in the HOF...

Posted by Paul in KY on Tuesday, 09/24/2013 @ 07:43am


"How can such a creative and unique tallent be left
out yet no tallent trash like Devo be in the hof?"

Devo are far more creative then Jimmy Buffett.

"how many songs did they wright?"

Quite a few, actually.

"How many stadiums are they selling out?"

Backstreet Boys have sold more records than Jimmy, should they go in?

"How many artist have a 50 year career "

They're only in their early 60's :l

Posted by GFW on Tuesday, 09/24/2013 @ 16:24pm


GFW does make some great points on why Jimmy is not in the HOF. I do think there are other reasons why he isn't, mainly because he's not really the kind of 'rock and roll' that the Hall is looking for.

I know, what I'm saying does not make sense. The HOF has several acts and singers that generally wouldn't be considered 'rock and roll' and everyone's definition differs from one another. No, what Jimmy did was take a genre and built it from his own, capitalized on it, made himself a cult fanbase, and became a brand. And Jimmy Buffett and his 'Parrotheads' are loving it. As far as influence, I'm not sure. So far, the only person I can think of who is trying to carry his torch is Kenny Chesney. But Buffett's music has touched some generations, and may continue to do so. Even for someone who can pull off several genres (especially country!).

I do like some of his songs but I am not a 'Parrothead' nor have I ever seen him in concert (yet). Maybe my opinion will change, who knows.

Posted by Jason Voigt on Tuesday, 09/24/2013 @ 17:19pm


According to Buffett Chicago was the first place outside the South were he became popular and spent a lot of time there and hung out with Old Town Folk artist (John Prine and Steve Goodman). Steve Goodman and Jimmy Buffett were actually close friends. They co-wrote a few songs together. Both were huge Cubs fans. Goodman was supposed to sing the National Anthem at one of the Playoff games but lost his 16 year battle with leukemia only a couple of weeks before the Playoffs. Buffett filled in for Goodman and dedicated the song to Goodman's memory.

Jimmy Buffett claimed that David Allen Coe's Divers Do it Deeper plagerized Changes in Lattitudes Changes in Attitudes. Buffett said "I would have sued him, but I didn't want to give Coe the pleasure of having his name in the paper." David Allen Coe's response was a song titled Jimmy Buffett where he kept saying throughout the song that Jimmy Buffett doesn't live in Key West anymore and towards the end says that they should get drunk and scr**.

Posted by Zuzu on Monday, 01/26/2015 @ 16:55pm


JB has entertained millions for decades. His music is more than just rock and roll but he rocks with the best! He's completely deserving and millions of Parrotheads can't be ignored.

Posted by Marti Long on Tuesday, 02/16/2016 @ 23:44pm


I don't know if its just me, but it seems Jimmy Buffett's name has been popping up more than ever, thanks to the Margaritaville brand. I know, its nothing new. But now its, like, everywhere. I can't dog the guy, since he's quite worked up this brand for himself and made a name. He's come quite a long way from the 70's, and he's still performing to sell-out crowds. I've never seen him perform live, as tickets would be as low as $50! But I have eaten at his restaurant twice. At least I can say I've had the Cheeseburger in Paradise and at least two of his specialty margaritas.

But anyway, like I said: he's built himself quite an empire. Now baseball stadiums are having Margaritaville-themed nights and resorts with that name are popping up. Its easy to call this guy a sell-out businessman than a musician. But again, he still sticks to the music. Still putting out albums, and touring like crazy to his parrotheads.

I may add him to my 2018 Predictions list next month, just because. Not sure if he would belong in the RRHOF or the Country Music Hall of Fame, or even both. He could probably pull off an Elvis/Cash feat. This one may be a surprise coming in the next few years. We shall see

Posted by Jason Voigt on Saturday, 07/15/2017 @ 08:16am


Jimmy Buffett has a new musical, Escape to Margaritaville.

This summer at his concert in Chicago, Huey Lewis opened for him.

I have noticed that Judy Collins, Melanie and Steve Goodman have also been getting more attention. My local PBS station is going to have a program on about how the electric guitar is falling out of favor. Maybe it has something to do with the direction music is going.

Posted by Zuzu on Monday, 10/30/2017 @ 00:30am


Jimmy belongs in the HOF...period. His longevity on tour and his catalogue of albums speak for themselves. His fan following legendary. But I point to the fact that every bar band coast to coast has Margarittaville on their setlist somewhere. We play it every show and people love it. 40 years later and it feels as fresh as the day I first heard it. He fits all the criteria...time to make it happen.

Posted by Davis on Thursday, 05/31/2018 @ 13:46pm


Jimmy Buffet does not meet the criteria to gain entry into the HOF.

Posted by Mark on Thursday, 05/31/2018 @ 22:03pm


I have taken the time to explore jimmy ..
He qualifies on so many levels: Writing producing ,performing, Bars/restaurants and Hotels.. He has redefined what a rocker can be, His staying power is next to none.. OVER DUE

Posted by DrRock on Thursday, 08/9/2018 @ 14:24pm


Ew. By the time he gets in, he'll be considered an early influence. Wait, he never influenced anybody. Nevermind.

Posted by Michael on Wednesday, 10/31/2018 @ 20:30pm


Actually, Jimmy made his fair shares of influences. Todd Snider, Barenaked Ladies, Garth Brooks, The Iguanas, Moxy Früvous, Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, Blake Shelton, Pete Droge, Zac Brown, Jack Johnson, Semisonic, Drive-By Truckers and Kenny Chesney.

He’s not on my most wanted list, but I do considered him one of the most doubtful eligibles.

Posted by The Dude on Wednesday, 10/31/2018 @ 21:14pm


I don't own any of his albums. I only know 5 or 6 of his songs. I went to see him for the first time yesterday at Riverbend Ampitheater in Cincinnati and it was sold out (20,500). Should he be in the RNRHOF? I can't say, but it seems that droves of people pay good money and time to see this guy. It's not my thing, but he has had quite a 50 year career that is still going strong. He doesn't even come up on "snubbed" lists.

Posted by Classic Rock on Friday, 07/19/2019 @ 11:28am


50 year career and still selling out everywhere he goes. A Pirate Looks at 40 may be one of the best songs ever written, covered by the likes of Bob Dylan and Jack Johnson. He is also a huge favorite in Ohio. Should he be in? Yes.

Posted by CajunPirate on Friday, 08/16/2019 @ 12:42pm


IF he gets nominated he will lead the fan vote by a very wide margin. No doubt. The trick is getting him on the nominee list.

Posted by OhioPirate on Thursday, 01/2/2020 @ 23:45pm


I met Jimmy in Key West in the early 70's He was cool then and cool now , only much richer . He had Hunter Thompson living in his apartment with an old refrigerator laying in the front yard next to Louie's BackYard . Rene , Prol and Bob ran it then . Jimmys music was and is now the soundtrack for millions of those living on the fringe of normalcy who colored outside the lines every chance they could , and are no worse for wear for doing it. Jann Weiner could put him on the cover of the Rolling Stone but now is the main force for not inducting him into the HOF. Wonder what perceived slight Jann is holding against Jimmy. Look behind the curtain Mr. Wizard !!!!

Posted by Randal C. Dunkle on Friday, 01/17/2020 @ 18:51pm


I met Jimmy in Key West in the early 70's He was cool then and cool now , only much richer . He had Hunter Thompson living in his apartment with an old refrigerator laying in the front yard next to Louie's BackYard . Rene , Prol and Bob ran it then . Jimmys music was and is now the soundtrack for millions of those living on the fringe of normalcy who colored outside the lines every chance they could , and are no worse for wear for doing it. Jann Weiner could put him on the cover of the Rolling Stone but now is the main force for not inducting him into the HOF. Wonder what perceived slight Jann is holding against Jimmy. Look behind the curtain Mr. Wizard !!!!

Posted by Randal C. Dunkle on Friday, 01/17/2020 @ 18:51pm


It is flat out ridiculous if he doesn't get in. He wrote some of the most beloved songs of the 20th century and they run constantly on classic rock radio stations around the world. Being goofy shouldn't prohibit a Hall of Fame induction.

Posted by Corey Russell on Tuesday, 06/9/2020 @ 14:17pm


Putting JB in the HOF would be akin to putting Yoko Ono in the HOF

Posted by Camoman on Tuesday, 06/9/2020 @ 22:07pm


Why isn't Jimmy in the Hall of Fame? Looks to me it is the Hall of Shame. We need to get a movement to get Jimmy Buffett his overdue recognition that is long overdue. It finally happened for The Moody Blues - it too can happen for Jimmy. In this day and age of injustices this is another one. So people, let's get the ball rolling on this. It can happen if we push the envelope and make it a reality!

Posted by Mark Shadle on Saturday, 06/13/2020 @ 21:38pm


If they do induct Jimmy Buffett to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
I hope he does no accept it
He is done very well for himself with out them!!

Posted by sam on Saturday, 08/8/2020 @ 11:04am


How can Joan Jett and the Blackheart get in and Jimmy Buffett isn't?

Posted by Brian Caunter on Friday, 06/25/2021 @ 08:52am


We just saw JB last night in Cincinnati. My wife mentioned that there was a wide range of ages there from college age to senior citizens. JB's appeal is plain to see. I think he deserves at least a nomination.

Posted by Kris Langstaff on Wednesday, 07/14/2021 @ 09:20am


JB has such a long wonderfull list of accomplishments.His contributions to all kinds of music and entertainment are truely very special.Anyone who knows about him would surely agree he deserves to be in the hof.Anyone who has been to a show knows .Its a wonderfull time for all.

Posted by Douglas Arnold on Thursday, 12/2/2021 @ 15:22pm


The Go Go's are in the RR HOF. Put Jimmy. Dylan says Buffett is in his top 6 of songwriters

Posted by Tim k on Friday, 05/27/2022 @ 23:51pm


Jimmy Buffett Should be in the Rock and Role HOF........He has many fans and has had many of hits.......He has a huge fan base. I have been to many of his concerns since 1978. He may not really be country or not really rock and roll. but is better than some of the other performs that are in the HOF........Thanks, Patrick Cross

Posted by Patrick Cross on Saturday, 12/10/2022 @ 23:27pm


I can think of reasons why he should, and why he shouldn't, get in. Granted, I was born and raised a Parrothead, so I am a wee bit biased.
On the con side, no, he doesn't technically fit the mold of a traditional rocker. His music lacked the same hard hitting melodies and never really broke past the "cult" status. He wasn't a pure rock artist, even compared to some contemporaries who made it in.
On the pro side, he was a rock and roll artist who did things his own way and earned the love of millions, across generations. His songwriting varies from inspirational and deeply moving, to fun and lighthearted, to rock pieces that even today make you want to smile, and dance. Even his covers were well thought and well performed.
More than anything, he broached the gap between rock and country, creating a sound that appealed to listeners of either genre. His influence echoes in many modern artists, of both types, and even if the argument were made that it isn't felt as heavily in rock today, there are a great many who would not have even been exposed to it if it were not for him.
To end, his music has brought joy, freedom, and frankly everything that rock 'n' roll is supposed to inspire in people, to untold multitudes throughout a long and successful career. I hope, maybe naively, but honestly hope, that he will make it. And if you don't believe me, listen to his songs. Not just the top hits...but across the board. You will understand.

Posted by Trey B on Wednesday, 08/23/2023 @ 01:50am


I didn't see this coming.

Rest in Peace Jimmy Buffett, 1946-2023.

Posted by Joe S. on Saturday, 09/2/2023 @ 02:39am


RIP Jimmy Buffett

Posted by J.W. on Saturday, 09/2/2023 @ 09:07am


Who gives a shit about the R&R HOF ! Dolly Parton ! Really?! Jimmy Buffet's in the HOF in the hearts of Parrot Heads world wide ! His music will live on forever. People will celebrate Jimmy Buffet every Labor Day weekend. And every time we drink a margarita . Or eat a cheeseburger in paradise. Rest in Paradise Jimmy.

Posted by Chesmister on Saturday, 09/2/2023 @ 17:40pm


Apparently he doesn't check off enough boxes......

Posted by Ho-Lee Fuk on Sunday, 09/3/2023 @ 15:02pm


JB in the HOF is completely overdue. He has highly influenced my life since I was 15 and there's very few musicians that can have such an impact on your perspective. He's an artist for the escapists, vagabonds and dreamers—which we all have inside. His music transports you and also makes you think. He is a beautiful and under appreciated songwriter. The news of his death shows anyone how much he influenced and impacted people—and how no one has a negative thing to say about him. If you only know the hits, give him a chance—I recommend "wonder why we ever go home"; "the captain and the kid"; and "Brahma fear" just to start. He's a one and only.

Posted by Amanda Tucker on Saturday, 09/9/2023 @ 00:17am


It's long overdue for Jimmy Buffett to be indicted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He has written and sang so many beautifully written songs, and has brought so much joy to so many people. He has the most loyal of fans and is truly loved and now missed by so many people.

Posted by Michael Hinz on Saturday, 09/23/2023 @ 19:32pm


I have a drive to get him inducted. Go to change.org/parrotheads and sign our campaign

Posted by Andrew C SHARROW on Friday, 09/29/2023 @ 16:46pm


I have a drive to get him inducted. Go to change.org/parrotheads and sign our campaign

Posted by Andrew C SHARROW on Friday, 09/29/2023 @ 16:46pm


I will continue my boycott of the Rock HOF until something changes. Even in death you can't admit your mistake.

Posted by Kaye Ross on Friday, 11/17/2023 @ 16:59pm


I never considered myself a "parrothead" but it wasn't until early last year that I really got into his music. Then I got Sirius XM radio and a lot of times I'll have it on the JB Margaritaville channel. I remember listening on the day of his death. Regretfully, I never saw him live. His music will always be timeless, and somehow it was able to defy genres.

As far as the Rock Hall, I really think that he will get in both the Rock and Country HOFs next year. I'm also willing to bet they probably won't put Jimmy on the ballot but automatically put him in the Musical Excellence category. I really hope that doesn't happen; for some reason I do. Very shameful he didn't see himself get put into any Hall of Fame (if I'm wrong please correct me)

Posted by Jason Voigt on Saturday, 11/18/2023 @ 21:05pm


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Future Rock Legends is your home for Jimmy Buffett and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, including year of eligibility, number of nominations, induction chances, essential songs and albums, and an open discussion of their career.


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