Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was popular in the late 1970s and was affectionately nicknamed "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she achieved great success with her chart-topping country and Christian songs, leaving behind an extensive collection of memorable hits.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling when she was young. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and eventually signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her notable songs, "Still a Woman," from her album A Woman, was impressively daring and became a Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings about closing the door, turning off the light, and getting ready to fly on a plane. She tells everyone to hold on tight as they take off. Throughout it all, she emphasizes that she is still a woman.
In Smith's album, Just Margo, released in 1979, she appeared on the cover wearing only a satin robe. This was considered bold and risqué at that time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more similar to a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her openness about sexuality and her provocative performances on stage helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she went back to being the teacher from Ohio and felt sorry for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she became known as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that won awards.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with her most notable student 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.
A stroke had occurred only a few days ago. Smith's loved ones who survive her include her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as her 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.
Remembering the lives of 40 talented country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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