Parrothead Paradise, A Jimmy Buffett Show
Music, like all art forms, serves as escapism. Music can transport listeners to another time and place that is unlike the reality of right now. Music helps us cope with the harshness of daily life. It’s a rejuvenating respite, a healing balm.
No iconic artist’s music fits that description more than Jimmy Buffett’s catalog of hits and concert staples. That’s exactly why Parrothead Paradise, A Jimmy Buffett Show formed in June 2022. The Plymouth, Minnesota band filled a void and satisfied a need – to get through the long, frigid winters of its home state with a little music that conjured thoughts of warm ocean breezes, fruity mai-tais, and coconut-infused suntan lotion.
Parrothead Paradise, A Jimmy Buffett Show incorporates 11 musicians and singers to create an ensemble that spins a tropical party onstage. These Parrotheads are: Will Bauermeister on lead vocals and acoustic guitar; Tony Wirth on acoustic guitar and backing vocals; Ali Gray and Katy Hayes on backing vocals; Jade Murphy on electric guitar; Chris Belich on steel drums and auxiliary percussion; Paul Gronert on saxophone; Jeff Nordquist on trumpet; Jay Ernest on bass; Michael McGregor on drums; and Donovan Johnson on keyboards.
Talk about bringing the tropics to the audience! In fact, Parrothead Paradise will do just that during two upcoming concerts – July 23, 2023, at 6 p.m. as part of the Bavarian Blast summer music festival at the Brown County Fairgrounds in New Ulm, Minnesota. Tickets are available here. Also, catch them Aug. 19, 2023, at 7 p.m. (gates open at 5 p.m.) at Summerfield’s Beach Party inside Summerfield Amphitheater in Saint Michael, Minnesota. Tickets are available here.
Onstage, Parrothead Paradise, A Jimmy Buffett Show offers the classic tunes, including “Margaritaville,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Fins,” “Volcano,” and more. But you can also expect a few deep album cuts from Buffett’s illustrious career as well as a take on his country hit duet with Alan Jackson, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.”
"Parrothead Paradise transforms the stage into a beach themed night,” says Jay Ernest. “The steel drums and female back-up singers create a soothing, ocean-like scene that is inviting to the casual listener as well as all Parrotheads.”
The magic of the back-to-the-island concerts continues for Parrothead Paradise. There are four more gigs booked for 2023 and more than a dozen dates are already finalized for 2024. As the Parrothead Paradise word keeps spreading, so will the opportunities for more musical rejuvenation, Buffett style.
"It's more than music that is the allure of Jimmy Buffett,” says Ernest. “He represents an escape to a vacation that we all need. It's the power of that tropical vibe and infectious songs that brings people together."
Connect with Parrothead Paradise, A Jimmy Buffett Show on social media: Like the band’s Facebook page and follow their Instagram page. Also, check out the Parrothead Paradise website for more musical merriment from these talented musicians.