Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. She was a prolific artist during the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous successful country and Christian songs.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, adopted the stage name Smith. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a TV show in her local area. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took an unconventional route as it started with her singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to express her femininity more prominently. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was included in her A Woman album, became a Top 10 hit and was particularly audacious.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Brace yourself tightly as we embark on this journey. 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, it was considered daring, although in 2024 the outfit may be seen as more like a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate provocative performances in her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden transformation, 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 started adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo called Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by teaching others the art of yodeling and even had the opportunity to teach Taylor Ware, who became well-known as the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith's family members who are still alive include her husband Richard Cammeron, along with 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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Photo Credit: Billy Dukes
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