Lessons learned thanks to Glen Campbell
Glen Campbell, whose greatest hits include ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ and ‘Whitchita Lineman,’ has beat the trends and continues to win awards and recognition to this day. Most recently, he was honored with a Grammy for ‘I’m Not Going to Miss You.’ The Band Perry received an award for their version of Campbell’s hit song, ‘Gentle On My Mind.’ Tonight, he is up for an Oscar for the song ‘I’m Not Going to Miss You,’ from the movie, “I’ll Be Me” depicting his daily life and struggles with Alzheimer’s.
Our eyes were opened wide when we saw the affects that Alzheimers has not only on the patient, but the caregivers, and medical community. Rather than give up when first diagnosed, Glen Campbell went on tour for over 2 years to say farewell to his fans.
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Glen Campbell at Renfro Valley – photo by Jessica Blankenship – Kentucky Country Music |
One of those shows early on was at Renfro Valley Entertainment Center and I was in attendance. It was bittersweet as you know this would be the last time you could see him perform. As monitors across the stage showed the words of the songs, Glen would sing and would get excited at different times because his memory would remember something on the song he was about to sing.
One of things that was amazing that even as he would forget the words to the songs, he effortlessly played the guitar with style and grace. Recent reports indicated that even in the medical facility he is currently staying, he would entertain fellow residents with his guitar playing.

Jessica Blankenship is the owner and founder of Kentucky Country Music website with over 20 years experience in music journalism, concert planning, photography, and promotion. Jessica is a Kentucky Colonel and alumni of the 2019 Leadership Kentucky BRIGHT Class and a recipient of the Laurel County’s Ten Under 40 Award. Listen to her each week on WFKY on Friday mornings for the Nashville News Roundup.