In Memoriam: A Tribute to Country Legend Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell, a celebrated singer, guitarist, and Country Music Hall of Fame member, passed away at 81 on August 8, 2017 in a Nashville care facility after battling Alzheimer's disease. His family confirmed the news in a statement.

Growing up in Arkansas, Campbell learned to play the guitar from his Uncle Boo, receiving informal lessons. Despite being unable to read music, Campbell's remarkable talent allowed him to play any song with ease, as noted by historian John Rumble. Before rising to fame, Campbell honed his skills as a studio musician in Los Angeles, where he was part of the renowned 'Wrecking Crew,' a group of talented studio players who contributed to numerous hit songs.

Known for his unique blend of country and pop music, Campbell had a career spanning over five decades. He once described himself not just as a "country singer," but as a "country boy who sings." According to historian John Rumble from the Country Music Hall of Fame, Campbell possessed a distinctive talent that set him apart in the music industry.

In 2011, Campbell revealed his Alzheimer's diagnosis and embarked on his Goodbye Tour shortly after. This journey was captured in the documentary 'Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me,' featuring the Grammy-winning song "I'm Not Gonna Miss You," which also earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in 2015.

Glen Campbell's last album, 'Adios,' released in June 2017, shortly before his passing. It was a bittersweet moment for his family. His daughter, musician Ashley Campbell, revealed that despite the joy of the release, her father was unaware of its existence or his Grammy win.

Glen's wife Kim recalled moments when he would wake up and ask, "Are we married?" She noted how he stopped using her name. "You don't take it personally," she said. "It's part of the disease. They lose their ability to communicate verbally so if you are trying to do something they don't like, they instinctively lash out." Doctors recommended full-time, long-term help. In 2015, Glen moved into a care facility in Nashville.

Shortly before Glen passed away at the end of the summer, he entered the final stage of the disease. When the family bid him farewell on August 8, Kim felt a range of emotions. "The month before he passed was extremely tough because it was just so sad—he declined so drastically," his wife said. "There's a sense of relief for him because I know he wouldn't want to continue and be bedridden...' Thank you, God.' Glen passed away peacefully without pain," she added.

Kim said she still finds it tough to interact with Glen's music, family photos, and belongings. Yet, she hopes to use this experience to raise awareness about the disease and support caregivers.

In early 2020, the Glen Campbell Museum opened in downtown Nashville. It showcases items from Campbell's career and offers fans a glimpse into his life and legacy. The museum also has a small stage for live performances and displays instruments, rare photos, stage outfits, and other memorabilia.