Country music icon Glen Campbell passed away at the age of 81 today after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Campbell notched 21 Top 40 hits over the course of his career, including “Rhinestone Cowboy,” “Wichita Lineman” and “By the Time I Get to Phoenix.” An accomplished guitarist, he was also a member of L.A.’s vaunted Wrecking Crew, which backed the likes of Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, The Byrds, and The Righteous Brothers on some of their biggest singles.
Campbell has eight children from four marriages, and struggled with alcoholism and cocaine addiction throughout his life. During his battle with Alzheimer’s, he allowed a film crew to tail him during his final tour, which resulted in the touching documentary I’ll Be Me.
RIP Glen Campbell and thank you for the music.