Deadheads Everywhere Mourn Passing Of Grateful Dead Lyricist Poet Robert Hunter

LOS ANGELES, CA. (THECOUNT) — Robert Hunter, the iconic poet who penned some of the Grateful Dead’s most enduring lyrics, has died at the age of 78. Rolling Stone confirmed the news via a statement from Hunter’s family, though no cause of death was given.

“It is with great sadness we confirm our beloved Robert passed away yesterday night,” the statement reads.

“He died peacefully at home in his bed, surrounded by love. His wife Maureen was by his side holding his hand. For his fans that have loved and supported him all these years, take comfort in knowing that his words are all around us, and in that way his is never truly gone. In this time of grief please celebrate him the way you all know how, by being together and listening to the music. Let there be songs to fill the air.”

Born in 1941 in California, Hunter formed an early relationship with Jerry Garcia before the Grateful Dead formed, collaborating even before the two musicians were a part of early-’60s bluegrass group Hart Valley Drifters (recordings of that band and other early Garcia/Hunter cuts were included in last year’s box-set compilation Before the Dead). Around the same time, Hunter took part in government-sponsored LSD tests at Stanford University, with cultural icon Ken Kesey, reports RELIX.

Read more.

Geo quick facts: A larger-than-life symbol of the entertainment business, Hollywood beckons tourists with landmarks like TCL Chinese Theatre and star-studded Walk of Fame. Highlights include Paramount Pictures, historic music venues like the Hollywood Bowl, and Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars. Scenesters can choose from improv comedy clubs, retro-cool bars and velvet-roped nightclubs. Locals frequent eateries in nearby Thai Town – wikipedia.