I was saddened to find out that one of the musicians I grew up with has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Glen Campbell was a well on our TV weekly in the late 60's and early 70's in my parents home, and had a string of hit songs and albums. And he proved himself a horribly awful actor in the otherwise great movie, True Grit. But his beginnings were more as a session guitarist in the Los Angeles area, recording with such luminaries as Elvis Presley, The Beach Boys, Johnny Cash and Leon Russell. He had a bit of a brush with the law a few years ago, but many suspect if was related to early onset Alzheimer's.
Well, Glen has recorded his final album and it is a gem, and is going on a farewell tour, that includes his adult children. His short term memory isn't good but he is still a great singer and guitar player, as these videos from his new album demonstrate.
Glen and is wife recently talked about his ordeal, and it is obvious to this casual observer that he has all the classic symptoms of the disease. He remembers everything that happened 40 years ago, but can't remember where he is going on his upcoming farewell tour.
So here is to you Mr. Campbell. Godspeed on your final journey, and make your last tour your best!
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