Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was famously dubbed "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, which peaked in the late 1970s, she achieved great success on the country music charts and also gained popularity with her Christian music releases. Smith leaves behind an impressive collection of country and Christian hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show she watched in her local area. Despite learning the unique skill of yodeling at a young age, she made the choice to pursue a career in teaching rather than chasing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which subsequently resulted in her creating a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly embrace her feminine qualities from 1979 onwards. Her song "Still a Woman," which was featured on her album called A Woman, became a daring success and reached the Top 10 charts.
As she sings in the chorus, she says, "Please close the door and switch off the light. The plane is about to depart tonight. Hold on tight as we take off. Despite everything, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album titled Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be perceived more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her open discussions about sex and her provocative concert performances contributed to increased ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she established themselves as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she devoted her time to yodeling and supported herself by teaching others this skill. One of her notable students was Taylor Ware, who gained recognition as 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.
A stroke had occurred only a few days ago. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory of the untimely departures of 40 country singers and songwriters, we pay our respects. Billy Dukes is credited for curating this gallery.
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