I was really sad to hear the news recently that Glen Campbell had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. He has decided to release one last album before retiring called “Ghost on the Canvas”. You can only imagine what a difficult situation it must be for him and his family. Its gotta be a mighty strange feeling to think that in time you may not remember so may precious memories or who the people you love in your life even are.

Campbell has a had a long successful career starting out in LA as a session musician. He played on numerous hit singles working with Phil Spectors wrecking crew. His session guitar work made him a highly sought after individual. He even joined the Beach Boys on the road at one stage as a replacement for Brain Wilson who suffered a mental breakdown.

He became a recording star in his own right in the mid to late sixties with songs such as “Gentle on my mind” and the Jimmy Webb penned tunes such as “By the time I get to Phoenix” and the sublime “Wichita Lineman”. He continued to record albums regularly but success levels were low until the mid seventies release of  “Rhinestone Cowboy” which propelled Campbell back to the top of the charts.

Campbell is currently touring for the last time in the UK and Ireland as well as several dates in the US. The album has been widely acclaimed by critics with appearance on several top US chat shows. Glen has appeared happy on the shows putting in good performances. He occasionally has to be reminded of things by his wife but for a seventy five year old guy he certainly seems to be doing well. I hope to get a chance to catch him one last time. He has led one hell of a life!