Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was nicknamed "The Tennessee Yodeler," had a successful career with numerous country and Christian chart-topping songs. Her impressive body of work will be remembered and cherished by fans.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith. Growing up, she found inspiration in a television show and even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing a career as a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame began when she first started singing in her classroom and later at parent teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album A Woman, was particularly daring.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane will be flying tonight. Hold on tight as we take off. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024 the outfit might be seen more like a housecoat. Despite her decreasing popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her more provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and showed remorse for this particular phase of 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 more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the name Margo Smith and Holly, and together they became an acclaimed Christian country duo.
During her later life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She made a living by instructing others in the art of yodeling, with her most renowned student being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up in America's Got Talent 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days before, she had experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting to make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Gallery Attribution: Billy Dukes
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