Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was well-known as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, which peaked in the late 1970s, she achieved great success with multiple chart-topping country and Christian hits. Her extensive catalog is a testament to her talent and contribution to the music industry.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited after watching a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began with her singing in her classroom and later at parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio shows, which then opened doors for her to create a demo recording and secure a contract with a record label.
Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more prominent manner in 1979. One of the standout tracks from her A Woman album, titled "Still a Woman," achieved significant success by being unapologetically bold.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is about to take flight tonight / Brace yourself, we're in for a thrilling ride / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover featuring her wearing a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sex and incorporate provocative elements into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, she began embracing the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler in 1983, but ten years later, she transitioned into a more conservative realm. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, an acclaimed Christian country duo.
During the later stage of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She also made a living by sharing her yodeling skills with others through teaching. One of her most well-known students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up in 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 only a few days ago. Smith's husband, Richard Cameron, and her extended family are left behind, along with their son and two daughters.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that a contribution be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Whose Lives Ended Prematurely
Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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