Brad Paisley Recalls Glen Campbell’s Influence on His Career

Brad Paisley shared his fondest memories of Glen Campbell while also calling for a cure for Alzheimer's Disease.

Written by Lauren Laffer
Brad Paisley Recalls Glen Campbell’s Influence on His Career
Glen Campbell and Brad Paisley; Photo via Instagram

Since news of his passing was revealed on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 8), many country stars have taken to social media to share touching memories of their encounters with Glen Campbell. Among the poignant tributes was one from Brad Paisley, who recalled the influence Campbell had on his career.

“When I was 10, I made my first live performance at Glen Dale Methodist Church, singing 2 songs. One of them was “Try a Little Kindness”, by Glen Campbell. I’m certain I wouldn’t be here without his influence. Any of you unfamiliar with his music, go check it out. The ultimate singer, picker, actor, tv star, legend. One of the faces that belong on our Mt Rushmore. We’ll do the remembering now Glen,” he shared.

The loss of Campbell hits very close to home for Paisley, not only musically, but also in his own personal experience with Alzheimer’s. Paisley and his wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley, publicly faced their battle with dementia as Kimberly’s mom fought the disease.

“Alzheimer’s is a thief,” wrote Paisley in a follow-up post. “And although it may rob someone of their memories, it cannot touch their legacy. And what a legacy you leave behind Mr. Campbell. Let’s figure this disease out once and for all. In memory of Glen.”

https://twitter.com/Kimwilliamspais/status/895027496843915264

Kimberly echoed his sentiment with a simple tweet reading, “RIP Glen Campbell. Love and peace to his family,” with the hashtag #endalz.

The superstar couple recently hosted an event to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association, and was attended by Campbell’s widow, Kim. “We want to support any attempt to raise funds, raise awareness, find a cure, we’re all about that, and what a fun way to do it,” she told shared at the event.

The Campbell family has been outspoken about their battle with the disease, much like the Paisleys, with Kim creating the website CareLiving.org, with the goal to serve as a resource for caregivers as well as patients.

Campbell passed away at the age of 81 in Nashville, TN.