Jimmy Buffett’s musical legacy is set to grow with a new posthumous album.
The project, finished by his longtime collaborators, features tracks that have never been released to the public. Mac McAnally and Michael Utley, who co-produced Buffett’s final record, have completed this collection of previously unheard material.
It is, for the most part, things that have never been out.
— Mac McAnally
Some songs were originally recorded for specific projects like television episodes or movies. The recordings span a significant timeframe, with the oldest track dating back to 2003 and the newest from roughly four years ago. None of these tracks have appeared on a standard Jimmy Buffett album.
Rare Tracks and Live Favorites
Fans attending recent Coral Reefer Band concerts might have already heard a taste of the new record. The group is currently performing "Workin’ n’ Playin’," a song written for the 2015-2016 tours. McAnally explains the track captures the essence of their life on the road.
(Buffett) and I used to talk about the fact that our work is playing, and our play is work... and we wrote that song the year we had a tour called Workin’ n’ Playin’.
— Mac McAnally
The album serves as a "hodgepodge" of Buffett’s diverse career. It includes an outtake from the *Escape to Margaritaville* stage musical and a piece written for his character on the *Hawaii Five-O* reboot. A brief tune from his bartender cameo in *Jurassic World* also made the cut.
A New Destination for Fans
Beyond the music, Buffett’s physical presence in Key West is becoming more accessible. Officials have approved a measure allowing the Shrimp Boat Sound Studio to operate as a tourist attraction. The space, located in the Historic Seaport, will continue to function as a commercial studio when booked.
McAnally describes the studio as a place where good things happen, noting its history as a shrimp boat unloading site. The goal is to let fans tour the facility when recording sessions are not taking place, similar to the operations at Muscle Shoals. While the album awaits a title and release date, the music is finished.
McAnally says listening to the final mixes has been a joyful experience, noting the audible smile in Buffett’s voice.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a new Jimmy Buffett album coming out?
Yes, a posthumous album featuring unreleased tracks is finished by his collaborators.
Who produced the new Jimmy Buffett album?
Mac McAnally and Michael Utley co-produced the collection of previously unheard material.
Can fans visit Shrimp Boat Sound Studio?
Yes, officials approved the Key West studio to operate as a tourist attraction when not recording.
What unreleased tracks are on the album?
The album includes songs from Hawaii Five-O, Jurassic World, and the Escape to Margaritaville musical.
