Jimmy Buffett’s former recording studio at the Historic Seaport (officially named the Key West Bight) will continue as a recording studio, and will be enhanced with a museum, tours, private recording sessions and photo opportunities, along with an outdoor margarita bar.
Long known as Shrimp Boat Sound, the boxy little windowless building that’s covered with stickers sits along Key West’s Harbor Walk, between Schooner Wharf Bar and the Conch Republic Seafood Co.
That building, which Buffett’s company had leased from the city and used as a recording studio, is now empty and in need of repairs. In the wake of Buffett’s September 2023 death, his estate canceled its lease this past June and emptied the building of all recording equipment.
The city of Key West owns all the buildings and property surrounding the seaport and leases them to restaurants, bars, boats and watersports businesses, providing significant revenue to the city. The Bight Board approves proposals for those leases and oversees the bight’s management.
That board earlier this month approved a joint proposal from Robert Spottswood Jr. and David Bernsen, and directed the city manager to negotiate a lease with the partners, who have pledged to donate all profits from the recording studio (not the bar) to Key West charities.
The partners’ proposal states: “Our joint vision combines a working recording studio and museum honoring Jimmy Buffett’s legacy with a bar featuring margaritas and tropical drinks along with a memorabilia retail and ticketing center. The integrated concept includes:
“1. Working Recording Studio: Restore the historic studio to operational status with modernized update (that was planned after Jimmy’s last recording session) to carry the studio forward. We have secured commitments from renowned artists including Mac McAnally, Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown Band, and the Coral Reefer Band.
“2. Museum and Tours: Offer affordable tours showcasing the studio restored to Jimmy Buffett’s era with today’s technology, featuring his actual equipment, instruments, and memorabilia, with private and experiential recording opportunities available.
“3. Margarita and Tropical Drink Bar: A bar operation showcasing Key West’s music, arts, and fishing history with limited indoor seating and outdoor seating for up to 20 persons.
“4. Retail and Memorabilia Sales: Unique merchandise, Jimmy Buffett lifestylethemed art, and Coral Reefer Band memorabilia.
“5. Live Entertainment: Live broadcasts, streaming, podcasts, and musical performances featuring participating artists (with proper permits).
“6. Venue for Hire and Charitable Events: Utilize the space for private events, weddings, functions, and approved charitable and fundraising events.
“We note that this concept has been initially approved and supported by Margaritaville Enterprises to ensure proper and legal use of the Buffett name at the Studio on Lazy Way Lane.”
