Legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett died after a four-year battle with a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer, according to a statement on his website.
The statement said Buffett, 76, battled Merkel cell cancer for four years before passing away last Friday at his home in Sag Harbor, New York, near the Hamptons.
Buffett continued to perform during his treatment and played his last show in early July with a surprise appearance in Rhode Island, according to the statement.
News of the “Margaritaville” singer’s death emerged Saturday, though a cause of death was not initially revealed. In May, Buffett rescheduled multiple concerts due to illness, and previously acknowledged on social media he was hospitalized without providing specific details.
Merkel cell carcinoma is a “very rare “ disease involving malignant cancer cells that form in the skin and spread quickly to other parts of the body including an individuals’ lymph nodes, lungs, the brain or bones, according to the National Cancer Institute. Risk factors include sun exposure, a weak immune system, a history with other cancers, and being older than 50 years.
While best known for his beach-inspired, easygoing music, including hits like “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” and “Margaritaville,” Buffett also had several entrepreneurial ventures, turning Margaritaville into a brand that featured restaurants, retirement communities, clothing, and casinos.
He also wrote multiple best-selling fiction and non-fiction books, according to the statement.
Buffett leaves behind his wife Jane Slagsvol and three children.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.