Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell died Tuesday. 81. Alzheimer's. An awful end.

Do yourself a favor. Read the obituaries. Listen to the music.

Personal favorites: "Wichita Lineman," and he did a version of "It's only Make Believe" that's simply outstanding. Yes, "Wichita Lineman" was a bit schmaltzy. It came from Jimmy Webb, the man responsible for "MacArthur Park."

The music world owes Glen Campbell a lot. He was one of the first to bridge the gap between country and pop.

This is similar to my recent blog entry on the Kinks, and how music can transport you in place and time. Glen Campbell was a wholesome oasis as the country was changing. He was big in the late 60's and early 70's. Watching the TV show and listening to the music took you away from riots in the streets, Vietnam, Watergate, etc. just for a little while. Plus, the guy had tons of talent.

His songs remind me of family time, AM radio, being a kid, growing up, having fun...

Admittedly, Glen Campbell wasn't so wholesome. He was an alcohol and drug abuser. Thankfully, he was able to defeat the demons.

By the way, if you had a Glen Campbell record, there's a good chance it was pressed at the Capitol Records plant in south Scranton.

Campbell's Alzheimer's was well known, and we all knew this day was coming. It doesn't mitigate the sadness.