In Memory of Bill Walton

We mourn the loss of our dear friend Bill Walton while celebrating the amazing life he lived. 

As an NBA and college basketball legend, Bill also held space for his love of drumming. His passion for life, people, and music transcended his legendary abilities on the court. Bill equated playing on a championship team with the communal experience of attending a concert, claiming that both sports and music serve to better our culture. 

As a close friend of percussionist and PAS Hall-of-Famer, Mickey Hart, Bill was a self-proclaimed “Deadhead”. According to his autobiography, he attended more Grateful Dead concerts (869) than NBA games in which he played (604). Not only an observer, Bill also drummed with his dear friend Mickey on and off the stage. 

We were blessed to have Bill frequent the REMO factory, where Remo Belli personally helped him customize a drum rig. Bill proudly displayed the piece in his dining room, beside the ping pong table. 

Bill Walton’s joy for life was unparalleled and will continue to inspire us all. 

Thank you, Bill, for your huge heart and inspiring presence. You are deeply missed, and we will forever keep the drum beating for you.