TMZ reports that Glen Campbell -- the legendary singer best known for his 1975 hit "Rhinestone Cowboy" -- has passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Campbell died Tuesday around 10 a.m. in a Nashville facility for Alzheimer's patients, according to a source close to his family.
The musician released more than 70 albums over a 50-year career, and had a series of hits in the '60s and '70s including "Gentle on My Mind," "Wichita Lineman," "Galveston," "Country Boy" and his best-selling single, "Rhinestone Cowboy." Although he was labeled country, he crossed over into the mainstream with his "Goodtime Hour" variety show, which ran from 1968-1972 and had subsequent specials.
Campbell's battle with the disease was chronicled in the 2014 documentary "I'll Be Me," which saw him continue to tour even as his memory all but faded away. His family -- mainly his fourth wife (who looked like she was straight out of "The Real Housewives of Orange County") and the kids he had with her -- insisted he enjoyed being on stage where he could still remember how to sing and play the guitar. But to some, it looked like elder abuse, as he literally seemed to have no idea where he was or what was happening once the song was over. (If nothing else, it was a fascinating look at how the human brain can remember some things and completely forget others.)
Campbell's kids from previous marriages later accused their (latest) stepmother of cutting off access to their father. Whatever the truth is, Campbell is no longer suffering -- and his music will live on forever. RIP.
3 comments:
We listened to country music growing up. I remember listening to him on the radio. Also saw him on TV. It is sad that the singers and actors I grew up listening to and watching are dying.
What a talent, there for my amusement my whole life! What a cruel disease especially in its attacks on the elderly.
Great musician may he rest in peace
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