Glen Campbell was a pioneer for country music, creating everlasting classics and songs that have lasted for decades. Glen Campbell's impact on the music industry in the United States has been huge, and he brought about a fusion of both pop and country, a combination that is still quite popular in the States. According to CNN, "his family announced (his death) on Facebook on Tuesday. He was 81."
Campbell was a guitarist from Delight, Arkansas. He was a happy man, with an upbeat attitude and a passion for music. He had a smooth and sweet voice, perfect for his country song hits that one can still find pleasure in listening to.
Glen Campbell started out as a session guitarist
Glen Campbell was not always the famous country singer that he has is today. In fact, at the start of his career, he worked in the studio as a session guitarist. Although session musicians are highly respected by their fellow peers, fans and music listeners do not always realize the hard work that these session musicians put into each song. Most of the credit goes to the artist whose name is on the label.
Glen Campbell was one of the most wanted session guitarists and was lauded for his impeccable skill and quick hearing, which made him easily adapt to the tune of any song.
In fact, Campbell was part of a famous crew of session musicians, which included the likes of Hal Blaine and Leon Russell.
You will find a lot of Campbell's work in records by Phil Spector, the Beach Boys, and Frank Sinatra.
Glen Campbell recognized for his country fused songs like 'Rhinestone Cowboy'
Campbell may have started out as a famous session guitarist, but by the end of his career he would be most known for his timeless and evergreen country infused hits like "Rhinestone Cowboy," "Gentle on My Mind," and "Southern Nights" to name a few.
Campbell was also known for his appearance on the "Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour". It was a variety show that ran from 1969 to 1972.
In 2011, Campbell announced to the public that he was battling Alzheimer's, a persistent disease that affects one's long term memory. Even though Campbell was suffering from such an intense sickness, one that still has no cure, he managed to release an album named "Ghost on the Canvas." Not only did Campbell manage to release this album, but he also managed to follow up with a tour, a testimony to Campbell's love and passion for music.
According to CNN, upon hearing the news of Campbell's death, singer Anne Murray expressed her deep sorrow. She said that music has lost 'a giant of a man and talent'. Although Campbell may be gone, his mark on music will last forever.