‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ Glen Campbell dead at 81

Singer Glen Campbell has died at 81 following “a long and courageous battle” with Alzheimer’s disease.

His family released a statement saying: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather.”

Campbell died today around 10am local time in Nashville, Tennessee at a facility for Alzheimer’s patients according to his publicist Sandy Brokaw. 

Campbell announced his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2011 and is survived by his eight children.

Read more: Glen Campbell’s family reveals devastating truth about his disease

The legendary guitarist was a self-taught prodigy who rose from a poverty-stricken upbringing in Arkansas to go on to sell 45 million records.

He is best known for his 1975 hit Rhinestone Cowboy and released more than 70 albums during his 50-year career. 

Campbell had 12 gold albums, 75 chart hits and co-starred with John Wayne in the original True Grit. 

He was also star of the Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour from 1969 to 1972 and had a weekly audience of around 50 million. 

Read more: The inside story on my 50-year friendship with Glen Campbell

Campbell’s celebrity fans have taken to social media to express their sadness at losing one of country music’s greats. 

Extremely sad to hear that Glen Campbell has passed away. My prayers and thoughts go out to him and his family.

— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) August 8, 2017

Besides being an amazing solo artist, Glen Campbell was also a genius studio musician – as part… https://t.co/PF0q9pdutd

— Lenny Kravitz (@LennyKravitz) August 8, 2017

So very sad about the passing of dear friend, Glen Campbell. I will have more words soon on my facebook page soon. pic.twitter.com/CXnb3PJUw0

— Jimmy Webb (@realjimmywebb) August 8, 2017

Rest in peace, #GlenCampbell. Thanks for the years of music & entertainment. You will be deeply missed. – Team Doors https://t.co/4yrZpg27Ed

— The Doors (@TheDoors) August 8, 2017

God bless @GlenCampbell & his family, friends & fans. #RIPGlenCampbell pic.twitter.com/xn0qNCxqDF

— Rodney Atkins (@RodneyAtkins) August 8, 2017

In one year alone, @GlenCampbell played on over 600 studio recordings. That’s a lifetime body of work for any other musician.

— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonDC) August 8, 2017

What was your favourite Glen Campbell song?