Los Angeles, Aug 9 (PTI) Legendary country music singer Glen Campbell, best known for his 1975 hit “Rhinestone Cowboy”, has died. He was 81. The singer died on Tuesday morning at an Alzheimer’s facility in Nashville, reported CNN. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and legendary singer and guitarist, Glen Travis Campbell … following his long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease,” his family announced on Facebook. The musician released more than 70 albums during his 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.” He made history in 1967 by winning four Grammys in the country and pop categories, and took home CMA’s Entertainer of the Year award in 1968. Before he became a solo star, Campbell was one of the music business’ most in-demand session guitarists. He was part of the famed “Wrecking Crew” of L.A. session musicians that included Hal Blaine, Leon Russell, Larry Knechtel and Carol Kaye. Campbell was also famous for “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour,” a TV variety show that ran from 1969 to 1972. Campbell released his final studio album, “Adios,” in June. The album, which included guest appearances by Willie Nelson, Vince Gill and three of Campbell’s children, was recorded after his farewell tour. The 2014 documentary “I’ll Be Me” documented the star’s farewell tour and struggle with his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Campbell is survived by his wife, Kim Campbell, and eight children. Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Brian Wilson, Lenny Kravitz and other musicians flooded social media with tributes to Campbell. “Glen Campbell was one of the greatest voices of all time. I will always love you, Glen!” Parton tweeted. Paisley said, “Thank you @GlenCampbell for the artistry, grace & class you brought to country music. You were a shining light in so many ways.” “Besides being an amazing solo artist, Glen Campbell was also a genius studio musician – as part of the Wrecking Crew – playing on recordings from The Beach Boys to Frank Sinatra. He was pure talent, heart, and courage. Rest In Peace brother. You brought us a lot of joy. @glencampbellofficial,” Kravitz posted on Instagram. “Thank you Glen Campbell for sharing your talent with us for so many years May you rest in peace my friend You will never be forgotten,” said fellow country star Charlie Daniels. “RIP my dear old friend Glen Campbell. Music has lost a giant of a man & a talent. I shall be forever grateful for everything he did for me,” said singer Anne Murray. The singer’s daughter, Ashley Campbell, said she is “heartbroken. “I owe him everything I am, and everything I ever will be. He will be remembered so well and with so much love.” PTI
