Jimmy Buffett is remembering his close, late friend Jerry Jeff Walker on Twitter with a touching photo and even more touching tribute.
Country music lost a legend this past Friday. Jerry Jeff Walker left us at the age of 78 after an incredible life. Unfortunately, his later years were fraught with throat cancer and pneumonia. A combination of both is the expected cause of death.
Before leaving us too soon, however, Walker made some amazing friends throughout his career. Once called the Jimmy Buffett of Texas, Walker was known to absolutely love the “way of life in Texas.” The comparison goes even further, too, when you learn these two men were the best of friends.
A long, long time ago – it was Jerry Jeff who first drove Jimmy Buffett down to Key West to get his start there. Walker took Buffett down from Coconut Grove, Florida all the way to the end of the Keys. Spending time together in Florida, the duo also co-wrote “Railroad Lady” together while riding the old Panama Limited passenger train.
Of his dear friend, Buffett writes:
“In such a hurtful moment, I have to say, that I am SO happy that he drove me to Key West. That lanky frame, cowboy hat, that energy, voice, those songs, wry wit and wonderful laugh will be with me forever. Thank you Jerry Jeff. Love to Susan, Jessie and Django.”
Jimmy Buffett
Jimmy Buffett & Tim McGraw Mourn Walker
Fellow country legend Tim McGraw is also mourning the loss of Walker. Within Walker’s six-decade career, he crafted many hits for McGraw. On Twitter, McGraw reveals his favorite song of Walkers – and that he used to sing it to his daughters.
In a touching video tribute, McGraw plays through the song itself to honor Walker. After he finishes a verse and chorus, he notes a’loud:
“‘She Knows Her Daddy Sings’ was one of the songs I used to play for my girls when they were little. Thinking back on those days today….and missing you, Jerry Jeff Walker. Thank you for the songs.”
Buffett and McGraw are far from alone for their love of the late Walker. Everyone from Eli Manning – to Bill Clinton – is memorializing the legend through heartfelt posts.
Rest in Peace, Jerry Jeff Walker.
[H/T Twitter]