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Bill Walton: The NBA Legend Who Was Also a Devoted Grateful Dead Fan

Basketball Great and Deadhead

Bill Walton, the NBA Hall of Famer who passed away in 2021, was not only known for his exceptional basketball skills but also for his unwavering love of the Grateful Dead. Walton attended an astounding 869 Grateful Dead concerts throughout his life, making him one of the band's most dedicated fans.

A Shared California Connection

Hailing from the same state as The Dead, Walton grew up in La Mesa, California, immersed in the band's music and counterculture. His passion for basketball and the Grateful Dead's improvisational artistry inspired him to pursue both with unwavering dedication.

Joining the Band on Stage

Walton's love for the Grateful Dead was so profound that he even joined the band on stage on several occasions. In 1978, he traveled with the band to Egypt for their performance at the Giza pyramids and sat in on drums for a few songs.

A Grateful Dead Tribute

Upon Walton's passing, the surviving members of the Grateful Dead paid tribute to their beloved Deadhead. They released a statement expressing their condolences and acknowledging Walton's unwavering support for their music and community.

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