Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was known for her vibrant and successful career in the late '70s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. She leaves behind an impressive collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, goes by the name Smith. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. Despite acquiring the ability to yodel at a young age, Smith chose to pursue a career in education rather than pursuing her aspirations of becoming a popular country singer.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame commenced when she first started singing in her classroom and later during meetings held by the parent-teacher association. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which eventually resulted in her creating a demo record and signing a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to express her femininity in a more noticeable manner. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was included in her album titled A Woman, gained significant popularity and was considered quite daring.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane will take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we begin our journey / I am still a woman."
Smith's album "Just Margo" released in 1979 had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, but in 2024, it may be perceived more like a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, Smith's openness about sexuality and her daring performances on stage helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular period in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly.
During her later stages of life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She sustained her livelihood by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other members of her extended family.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly 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 mourned. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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