'Rhinestone Cowboy' singer and Grammy winner Glen Campbell has revealed to PEOPLE that he is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Campbell, 75, received his diagnosis only six months ago, despite being plagued by short-term memory loss for many years.

Campbell has decided to go public and share the news with his fans because the singer will embark on a batch of farewell dates this fall, which his condition will likely affect. He wanted to disclose his diagnosis so that fans don't assume the worst in case he messes up a lyric or has a confused episode.

"Glen is still an awesome guitar player and singer," said his wife, Kim. "But if he flubs a lyric or gets confused onstage, I wouldn’t want people to think, 'What's the matter with him? Is he drunk?'"

"I still love making music," said Campbell, who is also known for his hit 'Gentle on My Mind' and his ability to straddle the country and pop worlds. "And I still love performing for my fans. I'd like to thank them for sticking with me through thick and thin."

How courageous of the singer to share his personal medical condition, and how noble of him to be so honest with fans. Taste of Country wishes Campbell the best of luck as he navigates through life with Alzheimer's.

Watch the Glen Campbell 'Rhinestone Cowboy' Video

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