The Real Reason Jimmy Buffett Fans Are Called Parrot Heads
By Grunge Staff
History - MUSIC
Fans of legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett are called Parrot Heads, which began in Cincinnati, Ohio — an area that the late great Buffet said was integral to his success.
The endearing name was first used by Timothy B. Schmit at a 1985 Coral Reefer Band concert after Buffett commented on the many tropical shirts and parrot hats in the crowd.
Buffett is synonymous with what AP News called a "laid-back party vibe." There are more than 200 Parrot Head clubs all around the world including the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
Parrot Head clubs do humanitarian work and offer events and concerts under the national umbrella organization Parrot Heads in Paradise (PHIP), which was recognized by Buffett.
In "The Power of Cult Branding How 9 Magnetic Brands Turned Customers Into Loyal Followers," authors Matthew W. Ragas and Bolivar J. Bueno call Buffet a "cult brander."
They say that Buffet draws his fans into a fantasy of fun, sunshine, and margaritas that never ends. Atlanta Parrot Head Club creator Scott Nickerson said, "It’s extreme escapism!"
Ragas and Bueno added, "[Parrot Heads] are purchasing the opportunity to fulfill their passions and dreams with like-minded individuals through various activities."
The Toronto Maple Reefers Parrot Head Club wrote, "We are not Parrot Heads because we are Jimmy Buffett fans. We are Jimmy Buffett fans because we are Parrot Heads."