University of South Carolina - Go Gamecocks Collection

The Grateful Dead’s connection to Louisiana, particularly New Orleans, took an infamous turn in January 1970 when Jerry Garcia and other band members were arrested for drug possession at the Royal Orleans Hotel. This event, known as the "Busted Down on Bourbon Street" incident (check it out in their song "Truckin'"), added a dramatic layer to the Dead's relationship with the state. The Grateful Dead played a memorable show in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on October 16, 1977 at the Assembly Center, that included an epic "Sugaree" and "Scarlet > Fire". Their Baton Rouge shows, like their shows in nearby New Orleans, brought LSU students who were attracted to the Dead's counterculture vibe in the 70's thats in line with the rebellious spirit of Louisiana.