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Dead & Company paid tribute to longtime Grateful Dead fan Bill Walton during their first show since the NBA legend’s death earlier in the week. Walton, a Hall of Fame center who passed away after battling cancer, credited the Grateful Dead with teaching him how to become a champion and attended over 850 of their concerts. The spin-off band Dead & Company, made up of members of the Grateful Dead, honored Walton with a performance of “Fire on the Mountain” during their residency in Las Vegas. The venue’s enormous screen displayed photos of Walton supporting the band, and a sea of roses cascaded down before a tribute graphic appeared on the screen with Walton’s jersey number, 32.

The crowd in Las Vegas erupted in applause as the band concluded their performance, with Mickey Hart, a percussionist for Dead & Company and former Grateful Dead drummer, taking to social media to salute Walton as the biggest deadhead in the world. Dead & Company also shared their love for Walton in a post following his passing, describing him as an irreplaceable force and spirit within their family. Pearl Jam also paid tribute to Walton during their Seattle show by performing “Man of the Hour”, with lead singer Eddie Vedder describing Walton as a big man with a huge heart who left a path of peace and love in his wake.

Bill Walton’s love for the Grateful Dead was unparalleled, attending over 1000 shows and immersing himself in the band’s music. His connection to the Grateful Dead community was evident in the outpouring of support and tributes from both Dead & Company and Pearl Jam following his death. The tribute at the Las Vegas show, featuring a performance of “Fire on the Mountain” and a display of photos and roses, showcased Walton’s impact on the band and their fans. Dead & Company’s acknowledgment of Walton’s influence on their music and community highlighted the deep connection between the band and their devoted followers.

The emotional tribute to Bill Walton at the Dead & Company concert in Las Vegas demonstrated the profound impact he had on the band and their fans. The outpouring of love and support from both the band members and the audience reflected Walton’s status as a beloved figure within the Grateful Dead community. The moving display of roses and tribute graphics on the venue’s screen served as a powerful reminder of Walton’s presence and devotion to the music of the Grateful Dead. Mickey Hart’s social media post and the band’s heartfelt message following Walton’s passing emphasized the significance of his role as the biggest deadhead and a cherished member of the Dead & Company family.

Pearl Jam’s tribute to Bill Walton during their Seattle show further highlighted the impact of his legacy beyond the world of the Grateful Dead. The performance of “Man of the Hour” and Eddie Vedder’s heartfelt remarks underscored Walton’s reputation as a big-hearted individual who spread peace and love wherever he went. The tributes from both Dead & Company and Pearl Jam served as a touching memorial to Walton’s life and his enduring influence on the music community. As fans and musicians alike mourned his passing, the power of his spirit and his love for the music of the Grateful Dead continued to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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