Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her energetic and successful country songs during the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited after watching a TV show in her local area. Even at a young age, she developed the skill of yodeling. However, she ultimately chose to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the journey to fame for this artist took an unconventional route. It started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her making a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more pronounced manner starting in 1979. One of her notable songs, "Still a Woman," from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring and reached the Top 10 charts.
She sings in the chorus, "Please close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tightly as we soar through the skies. I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album called "Just Margo" had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, this was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and her provocative performances helped increase ticket sales for her concerts.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her previous role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed her feelings of regret about this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time went on, she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received accolades.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by instructing others in this unique skill. Notably, she had the privilege of teaching Taylor Ware, who gained fame 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.
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 relatives.
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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