What Made Parrots The Mascot Of Jimmy Buffet?

The term “Parrot Heads” was first used by Timothy B. Schmit at a 1985 Coral Reefer Band concert, where Buffett commented on the tropical shirts and parrot hats in the crowd. Parrot Heads are uniquely devoted to the legendary musician, arriving at his concerts dressed in bright colors, hula skirts, and even celebrating slackers before the word existed. Buffett built an empire based largely on Caribbean-flavored pop that celebrated the Florida Keys, sunshine, and nightlife. His name became synonymous with the group.

The term “Parrot Head” was coined by Timothy B. Schmitt of the Eagles, who was moonlighting in Buffett’s band in the 1980s. Buffett shared how much he loved his fans and said there is no other group that has fun the way they do. His fans, called “Parrot Heads”, are uniquely devoted to the legendary musician. Buffett’s loyal Parrot Head navy has built a community of concertgoers for whom the sets themselves are like a cartoon version of the bird mascot.

With the death of Jimmy Buffett, the feathers of his loyal network of fans, affectionately known as Parrot Heads, collectively drooped. Louisiana fans of the late Jimmy Buffett will get the chance to experience his music the way it was meant to be heard beginning this summer.