Monday, September 19, 2011

Glen Campbell bids farewell to Kentucky with concert

Glen Campbell at Renfro Valley - by Jessica Blankenship
You could say it was a bittersweet goodbye on Saturday night in Renfro Valley, Kentucky, as Glen Campbell performed. Battling Alzheimers, the country music legend performed his last show in Kentucky as part of his Farewell Tour.

Despite having to read the lyrics from the monitors, Glen Campbell showed he still has the ability to entertain. His soulful heartfelt vocals down to his guitar playing made him feel right at home.

Joining on stage with Glen Campbell were his children. His daughter and son would join for a bluegrass style duet. Afterwards, Glen would join his daughter, Ashley, who had the looks of Carrie Underwood but could play the fire out of a banjo. They would play a firey version of "Dueling Banjos".

In between songs, Campbell would tell little snippets of jokes, but most of all, he showed excitement for being there - for being able to still play. He didn't let something overcome him and he let his guitar do the talking.

After playing "Rhinestone Cowboy" with a five minute standing ovation, Glen Campbell appeared back on stage for an encore. In a haunting and touching tribute with the song, "A Better Place," those in the audience heard the story of a man who has done all he could do in his life and he is happy. He is proud of what he has achieved and he knows his time has almost come to say goodbye.

For Glen Campbell, the rhinestones will still shine on and the Wichita Lineman will always be on the line.

More information on Alzheimers Disease, please go to http://www.alz.org

Glen Campbell Renfro Valley Set List 
Gentle on My Mind
Galveston
By the Time I Get to Phoenix
Try a Little Kindness
Walls
Where’s the Playground Susie
Dreams of the Everyday Housewife
Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)
True Grit
Kentucky Means Paradise
Dueling Banjos (with daughter Ashley)
It’s Your Amazing Grace
Ghost on the Canvas
Any Trouble
It’s Only Make Believe
I Can’t Stop Loving You
Southern Nights
The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress
Wichita Lineman
Rhinestone Cowboy

Encore:
In My Arms
A Better Place