Margo Smith, a successful country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her chart-topping songs in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian hits, leaving behind an extensive catalog of music.
Betty Lou Miller, who later adopted the stage name Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Growing up, she found inspiration in a television show and even developed the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she chose to pursue a career in teaching.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began when she began singing in her class and later during parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on the radio, which then led to her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Smith started to express her femininity more openly in 1979. One of the songs from her A Woman album, titled "Still a Woman," became a daring Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is scheduled to take off tonight / Brace yourselves as we soar with all our might / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing just a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. However, her openness to discuss sex and her provocative performances during concerts helped boost ticket sales, even as her popularity on country radio declined.
Suddenly, there was a change and she returned to being the teacher from Ohio. She expressed remorse for this 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 more conservative beliefs. Together with her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country act known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made money by imparting her yodeling skills to others (notably, Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent 2006, was one of her most renowned students). Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that a donation be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age. Credits to Billy Dukes for the gallery.
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