Who was Glen Campbell, what was his cause of death and what are his most famous songs with Wichita Lineman?
A look at the life and times of one of the most famous country music stars in the world
GLEN Campbell, the legendary country singer, died aged 81.
The star passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease - here is what we know...
Who was Glen Campbell? What was his background?
Glen Travis Campbell was born April 22, 1936 and as an American singer, songwriter, television host, actor and country music star.
Glen sold over 45 million records and had 75 chart hits.
As well as forging a successful musical legacy, Glen was also a TV host and actor who fronted a self titled show called Glen Campbell's Goodtime Hour on CBS.
He also worked alongside John Wayne in the 1969 hit western True Grit.
He had an incredible 50 year career.
Glen released over 70 albums, 12 of which went gold and was known as one of the best country singers to have ever lived.
How did Glen Campbell die?
Glen revealed he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2011 at the age of 75.
Just months later he announced his retirement from music.
Rather than walking away however, Glen embarked on a farewell tour to say goodbye to the fans who'd helped make him the famous musician he was.
His final album, Ghost On The Canvas, was quickly released and three of his children joined him on tour.
Glen was surrounded by his family and friends when he died at the Nashville Facility for Alzheimer's patients.
They said in a statement: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and legendary singer and guitarist, Glen Travis Campbell, at the age of 81, following his long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.
"Glen is survived by his wife, Kim Campbell of Nashville, TN; their three children, Cal, Shannon and Ashley; his children from previous marriages, Debby, Kelli, Travis, Kane, and Dillon; ten grandchildren, great- and great-great-grandchildren; sisters Barbara, Sandra, and Jane; and brothers John Wallace “Shorty” and Gerald."
In March this year his daughter Ashley gave an emotional interview to Rolling Stone where she revealed her father's health had deteriorated.
She said: "My dad is currently living in a beautiful memory care facility, and he is in the late stages of Alzheimer's.
"He has aphasia, so he can't really communicate, he can't really understand language as we do."
What are Glen Campbell's most famous songs?
Glen was one of the most famous country music stars in history.
His best loved songs include:
- Rhinestone Cowboy
- By the Time I Get to Phoenix
- Gentle on My Mind
- The Hand That Rocks the Cradle
- Wichita Lineman
- Try a Little Kindness
- Galveston
- I’m Not Gonna Miss You
- True Grit
What stars have paid tribute to Glen Campbell?
As the news of his death broke, hundreds paid tribute to Glen and his musical legacy.
Dolly Parton wrote: "Glen Campbell was one of the greatest voices of all time. I will always love you, Glen!"
Lifelong Glen fan Piers Morgan added: "RIP Glen Campbell, 81. The Rhinestone Cowboy who melted hearts, broke hearts & sang from the heart. What a singer, what a life."
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