“Bubbles Up” was one of the last songs recorded by Jimmy Buffett before his passing.
Jimmy Buffett tragically passed on September 1, 2023, after losing a battle with skin cancer that turned into lymphoma. He was known for his feel-good songs that had the ability to transport the listener to a far-away tropical paradise. Prior to his passing, Buffett had been working on a new album that captured his fun-loving spirit.
Three of the songs were released a week later, including “Bubbles Up,” a hopeful tune that encourages listeners to “just know that you are loved / there is light up above / and the joy is always enough.” Buffett co-wrote the song with Will Kimbrough, and it was produced by Michael Utley and Mac McAnally.
The Official Music Video for “Bubbles Up” features real footage of Jimmy Buffett’s life.
CMT premiered the official music video for “Bubbles Up” on October 25th, and fans were served a heaping dose of nostalgia from the clips featured in the video.
Buffett’s team explained the video features:
“Jimmy and what he loved doing. From performance footage in the 70s to more recent days, being on and in the water, playing for fans, flying, each frame holds wonderful memories of a well-lived life. The opening shot is Jimmy filming himself jumping into the water.“
One fan noted that the song and accompanying video felt like a “parting gift to his fans” and reflected on the impact that Jimmy Buffett’s music had on his life.
Paul McCartney believes that “Bubbles Up” is some of Jimmy Buffett’s best work.
After Buffett passed away, Paul McCartney fondly recalled the last memories they made together in the studio. He was particularly impressed by the song “Bubbles Up” adding:
“…I told him that not only was the song great but the vocal was probably the best I’ve heard him sing ever. He turned a diving phrase that is used to train people underwater into a metaphor for life when you’re confused and don’t know where you are just follow the bubbles – they’ll take you up to the surface and straighten you out right away.“
Jimmy Buffett’s posthumous album Equal Strain On All Parts is set to release this Friday, November 3rd. The album will contain 14 tracks including “Bubbles Up.”