Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was famously 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 on the charts with her dynamic country songs. Additionally, Smith also left a significant impact in the Christian music genre, with a collection of hits in that realm as well
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, 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 at a young age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
AllMusic highlights that her unconventional journey to fame began when she first showcased her singing skills in her classroom and later during meetings of the parent teacher association. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn paved the way for her to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her feminine side in a more pronounced manner, starting from 1979. One of the standout tracks from her A Woman album, titled "Still a Woman," gained significant popularity, reaching the Top 10 charts. This song showcased Smith
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is going to take off tonight / Brace yourself as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, this was considered daring, even though now in 2024, the outfit may resemble more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Margo's openness about sexuality and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her regret for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, she began embracing the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler in 1983, but as time passed, 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 awards.
During the later stage of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She also made a living by imparting her knowledge of yodeling to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Smith eventually returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred only a few days ago. 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 requesting contributions to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Image Credit: Billy Dukes
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