Margo Smith, a renowned country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a vibrant artist in the late 1970s and gained recognition as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she amassed a collection of successful country and Christian music hits.
Smith, originally known as Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in pursuing a career in performance was sparked by a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of following her aspirations of becoming a country star, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame began when she first showcased her singing abilities in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This initial exposure then paved the way for her to perform on radio shows, ultimately leading to the opportunity to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to express her femininity more openly. One of her songs from the album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," gained popularity and reached the Top 10 charts, displaying her courage and confidence.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane will be flying tonight / Prepare yourself as we take off / Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's album Just Margo, released in 1979, had a bold cover featuring her wearing just a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more like a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, her openness about sex and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to embrace the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly, which garnered several awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She was able to make a living by providing yodeling lessons to others, including Taylor Ware, who gained recognition as the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Recently, she had experienced a stroke. Smith's loved ones who continue to live on include her spouse Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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