Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout the late 1970s, she dominated the charts with her outstanding country songs and garnered the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler". She leaves behind a remarkable collection of country and Christian hits that have made a significant impact in the music industry.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she chose to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the artist's unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This led to opportunities for radio performances, which eventually resulted in the creation of a demo record and the acquisition of a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a song from her album A Woman, became a Top 10 hit and was considered quite daring.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tight as we're about to depart. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album called Just Margo caught attention with its cover featuring her wearing a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit may be seen more as a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sex and incorporate more provocative elements in her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her sadness about this period in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983, she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she had transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated her time to yodeling. She found a source of income by teaching others how to yodel, with one of her most well-known students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Recently, she had experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered and honored. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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