Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she left a lasting legacy with her extensive collection of successful country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith. She developed a passion for performing after watching a television show in her local area, and even gained 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.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her popular songs, "Still a Woman," from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring and made it to the Top 10 charts.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tight as we soar through the sky. Remember, I am still a woman."
In the 1979 album "Just Margo" by Smith, she appeared on the cover wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more of a casual housecoat. While her popularity on country radio was declining, her openness to discuss sex and her provocative performances on stage helped increase ticket sales.
Unexpectedly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed feelings of 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 mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received accolades.
Smith relocated to Florida during the latter part of her life, where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She generated income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students 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 few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
The family is kindly requesting that instead of sending flowers, any contributions be made as a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered and honored. The credit for the accompanying gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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