Glenn Campbell - new found respect

I heard a radio interview with Glenn Campbell where he describes being a session musician working his first date with Frank Sinatra. Nelson Riddle rehearsed the arrangements prior to Sinatra arriving. Campbell was the third guitar player and described his parts as not having to play much. When Sinatra arrived Campbell decided to ignore his guitar parts and just focus on Sinatra. He wanted to see how "The Man" worked. Sinatra was all business and quickly started singing with his back to the band. Mid way through the first song Sinatra puts down his headphones and walks over to Riddle and says something to him. The band stops playing and Riddle approaches Campbell and asks, "Frank wants to know why you're not playing your guitar part?" The experience pressed upon Campbell how much focus and attention to detail he would need to have if he wanted to be the man.

I can't remember what the name of the album was, but I was very impressed at his rendition of Macarthur Park.

Another fan here. Country crooners are set up to take some hits on this kind of forum, so I understand why the OP felt that he might get slammed. However, Glenn could play and sing and he usually interpreted the songs he was handed in a straightforward, yet effective away. Glad to see that so many folks here can look beyond the label and appreciate the artist.

Agree with the accolades. Campbell is a terrific musician. As Martykl points out country music artists are bound to take hits on a site like this. The truth is that much of country music, past and present, demonstrates a far higher level of musicianship and attention to craft than a lot of pop music and music that is generally thought to be "hipper".

Roxy54, above, mentioned Campbell's contributions as part of 'The Wrecking Crew.' Also, the comment that he was self-taught. Does anyone know if Campbell read music?