The 2023 CMA Awards turned into a deeply emotional night when Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally took the stage to pay tribute to the legendary Jimmy Buffett. Their heartfelt performance of “A Pirate Looks at Forty” celebrated Buffett’s incredible influence on music, culture, and the country genre.
Originally written in 1974, “A Pirate Looks at Forty” has become one of Buffett’s signature songs, capturing his love for storytelling, nostalgia, and the pursuit of a laid-back, carefree life. The song speaks to a man embracing his identity as a modern-day pirate, living freely and on his own terms—a feeling that resonates deeply with Buffett’s fans.
Chesney, a longtime friend and collaborator of Buffett, poured his heart into the vocals, bringing out the wistful and reflective mood of the song. Mac McAnally, a familiar face from Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, added rich guitar and harmonies, ensuring the performance felt as authentic as it was emotional.
The stage was bathed in soft, tropical lighting that evoked the island vibes so closely tied to Buffett’s music. As they sang, images of Jimmy Buffett were projected behind them, keeping his spirit alive and moving the audience to tears and cheers alike.
This tribute wasn’t just a performance—it was a celebration of Buffett’s life and legacy. Chesney and McAnally’s rendition of “A Pirate Looks at Forty” served as a beautiful and emotional farewell to an irreplaceable icon, reminding everyone of the joy, freedom, and stories Jimmy Buffett shared with the world.
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