Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She gained fame in the late 1970s and was also recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous successful country and Christian songs.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television program in her local area, leading her to even acquire the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the choice to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took a unique turn when she began showcasing her singing abilities in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. 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.
In 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner. One of the standout tracks from her album "A Woman" called "Still a Woman" made a bold statement and achieved significant success, reaching the Top 10 charts
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is set to fly tonight / Brace yourself tightly as we depart / Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's album, Just Margo, released in 1979, had an attention-grabbing cover that showed her wearing nothing but a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although by 2024, it might be seen as more of a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she returned to being the teacher from Ohio. She expressed sadness for this period of 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 who won awards.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by teaching others this skill. One of her most well-known pupils was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville, but sadly passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she had a stroke. 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 that you consider making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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