Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell, a luminary in both the music and entertainment industry, began his journey as a prodigious talent from a young age. Hailing from a large family in Billstown, Arkansas, Campbell was gifted a guitar by his father at a tender age, and by 10, he was proficient in its strings. At 16, he embarked on his professional music career, eventually moving to Los Angeles where he became a highly sought-after session musician, enriching recordings by iconic artists such as Frank Sinatra and the Beach Boys.

In 1967, Campbell's single "Gentle On My Mind" began a journey of hits, although it initially only reached number 30 on the Billboard charts. It was his subsequent tracks, including "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" and "Wichita Lineman," that cemented his status as a crossover sensation between country and pop music. Campbell's versatility and charisma led to the launch of his own TV show, "The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour," in 1969, which became a significant success, introducing him to a broader audience and solidifying his celebrity status.

Over his illustrious career, Campbell released more than 70 albums and sold 45 million records. His accolades include multiple Grammy Awards, the CMA Entertainer of the Year, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005. He also ventured into acting, notably co-starring with John Wayne in "True Grit."

Campbell faced personal challenges, notably his battle with Alzheimer's disease, which was publicly revealed with the help of his wife, Kim Campbell, also an Alzheimer’s advocate and a former dancer with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. Kim Campbell played a pivotal role in managing his care and raising public awareness about the disease. This journey was poignantly documented in the award-winning documentary "Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me," which garnered two Grammys, a CMA Award, and an Oscar nomination.

Kim Campbell has authored the memoir "Gentle On My Mind: In Sickness and in Health with Glen Campbell," detailing their life together and her caregiving experiences. She is also the founder of CareLiving.org and serves on the board of Abe's Garden, a memory care community. Her efforts include collaborating with the Kim and Glen Campbell Foundation to explore the benefits of music therapy for those with dementia.

Glen Campbell's enduring legacy is marked not only by his musical and television achievements but also by his impact on the lives of those battling Alzheimer's, through both his and Kim's advocacy and contributions to understanding the disease.