Margo Smith, a popular country singer who achieved success in the late 1970s, has passed away at the age of 84. She was affectionately called "The Tennessee Yodeler" and was known for her impressive collection of country and Christian music hits.
Smith, originally known as Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. The spark to pursue a career in performing was ignited within her after being exposed to a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she ultimately chose to become a teacher rather than pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country music sensation.
According to AllMusic, the unique journey of her rise to fame began when she initially showcased her singing talent in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable manners. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her A Woman album, was particularly daring.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane will be taking off tonight / Hold on tightly as we embark on this journey / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing only a satin robe. At that time, such a choice was considered daring, although by 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. While her popularity on country radio was diminishing, her willingness to openly discuss topics related to sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she returned to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she rebranded herself as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others. One of her most well-known students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville, but sadly passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith's husband, Richard Cammeron, and her extended family, including one son and two daughters, are the ones left behind to mourn her passing.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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