By Andrea Martone
Island Vibes: Lefty Lucy Band Dedicated to Keeping Jimmy Buffett’s Legacy Alive
On Aug. 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis officially declared the date as Jimmy Buffett Day in Florida – a tribute to the late singer, songwriter, and cultural icon whose music and larger-than-life persona captured the easygoing spirit of the Sunshine State.
The declaration was more than a ceremonial nod. It acknowledged Buffett’s vast influence not only as the creator of Margaritaville and the pioneer of the “Tropical Rock” sound, but also as a philanthropist, best-selling author, entrepreneur, and tireless champion of Florida’s natural beauty.
Buffett, often called the architect of the “Gulf and Western” style, crafted a genre that blended rock, country, and Caribbean rhythms into a soundtrack of escapism. His songs transported listeners to sun-kissed beaches and lazy afternoons, and in doing so, built an enduring community of fans lovingly dubbed “Parrotheads.”
Though Buffett died in 2023 at age 76 after battling Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare form of skin cancer, his presence is being kept alive by a regional (and national) band named, Lefty Lucy Band. The band includes Lucy & Nick from Lefty Lucy, Sunny Jim, John Patti, Jax Bowers, Klee Liles & Aloha Steve. When they play in Florida as a tribute to Buffett, they perform under the name “Gypsies in Paradise.” Their tribute shows in Florida also double as a fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting Reef Relief and Eternal Reefs, two organizations devoted to protecting marine ecosystems and preserving coastal habitats – causes close to Buffett’s heart. The Gulf Coast-based nonprofit, Fins Up Forever, sponsored a recent event.
Denise Fox, co-founder of Fins Up Forever, says, “For us, as so many other people, Jimmy Buffett has been the soundtrack to our lives. With his recent passing a huge hole was left! We’ve loved the live concert events and that’s what we hope to capture here for you. A fun live event that celebrates his music as well as the concert traditions. We hope you join us for tailgating, fun and music. KEEP THE PARTY GOING!”
More Than Music
Buffett’s influence extends far beyond his hits. He built an empire around the ethos of island living – restaurants, resorts, and business ventures that projected the same laid-back philosophy as his songs. But perhaps more importantly, he gave generations of fans permission to embrace joy, playfulness, and community. “Buffett didn’t just write songs – he offered an escape,” said one attendee, donning a straw hat decorated with miniature flamingos. “His music is a reminder to live life fully, and Florida wouldn’t be Florida without him.”
As the final guitar chords of the evening faded and the crowd raised margarita glasses in unison, it was clear that Buffett’s legend is alive and thriving. Jimmy Buffett Day may be officially recognized on Aug. 30, but in Florida – and for fans and Parrotheads everywhere – every day holds a little piece of Margaritaville.
What is Fins Up Forever?
Who are the Lefty Lucy Band and the Gypsies in Paradise?
The Lefty Lucy band is a professional cover and original band now making Southwest Florida their home when not performing in Colorado. The band’s founders are Lucy Malia (lead vocals, keyboards, guitar, harmonica) and Nick DiBlasio (vocals, guitar), and they perform as a duo, trio, or full five-piece band with additional musicians as needed. Members: Founders Lucy Malia and Nick DiBlasio are joined by various professional musicians depending on show size. They are known for a dynamic, crowd-pleasing live show, they’ve also held long-term residencies as house bands in Las Vegas, Bermuda, St. Thomas, and Colorado, and have opened for major artists such as Kenny Chesney. “We have lived Jimmy Buffet’s lifestyle since 1998,” says Lefty Lucy. “We live the music and we’re in the middle of writing a new album now.”
To contact the band: www.leftylucy.com
Florida’s Own Vince Berardi Strikes a Chord with Audiences
Vince Berardi is a musician based in southwest Florida, recognized as the lead singer and guitarist for the band, License To Chill, which performs throughout Sarasota, Bradenton, Pinellas and Charlotte counties. His music and performances are often featured locally, and his online presence includes a YouTube channel.
Berardi’s work is particularly associated with the local music scene in coastal southwest Florida, often in genres suited to beach-town venues and live events. If you are a Baby Boomer who savors music from the 60’s through 70’s, you’ll want to see Vince perform or hire him for one of your parties or corporate functions.
www.vinceverardi.com
732-822-1993
Youtube @VinceBerardi