Thu Feb 06 12:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Buffett’s Spirit Lives On: Mac McAnally Delivers Emotional Ryman Debut
NASHVILLE, TN – Mac McAnally, longtime friend and collaborator of the late Jimmy Buffett, delivered a powerful and emotional tribute to the iconic singer-songwriter during his debut performance at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium this weekend. The show, filled with Buffett’s music and featuring star-studded guests, served as a poignant celebration of Buffett’s legacy and a testament to the enduring power of their friendship.
McAnally, a prolific songwriter in his own right, opened the show with Buffett’s “Son of a Son of a Sailor,” setting the tone for an evening steeped in nostalgia and heartfelt remembrance. The setlist included beloved Buffett tracks like Shenandoah’s “Two Dozen Roses” and Alabama’s “Old Flame,” further highlighting Buffett’s influence on country music. Fellow Coral Reefer Band members Eric Darken and Peter Mayer joined McAnally onstage, adding to the emotional weight of the performance.
Country superstar Kenny Chesney joined McAnally for a memorable medley of hits, including a moving rendition of Buffett’s “Come Monday,” which they performed together at Buffett’s posthumous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Their collaboration on McAnally’s “Down the Road” showcased their close friendship and the enduring appeal of McAnally’s songwriting. The show culminated in a rousing performance of Chesney’s early hit “Back Where I Came From,” also written by McAnally, and a wistful rendition of Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at Forty,” a song they performed at the 2023 CMA Awards as a tribute to Buffett.
“Friday night at the Ryman was a singular highlight,” McAnally stated in a post-show statement. He expressed gratitude to his fellow musicians, the venue staff, and the audience, emphasizing that the performance wouldn’t have been possible without Buffett’s influence. Chesney echoed this sentiment, calling the experience “pure joy” and highlighting the shared memories and stories of their time together writing songs in Key West with Buffett.
The sold-out show, attended by approximately 2,500 fans, served as a fitting tribute to Buffett’s enduring musical impact, showcasing his lasting legacy through the artistry and friendship of Mac McAnally and his collaborators. The performance underscored not only Buffett’s absence but also the enduring power of music to connect friends, fans, and generations.
First Piper 