Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her successful songs in the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she has released numerous country and Christian hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her locality, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career in education instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a renowned country musician.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which further led to the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity starting in 1979. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was featured on her album A Woman, became a significant success and was highly courageous.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is scheduled to take flight tonight / Brace yourself tightly as we embark / Remember, I am still a woman."
In Smith's album titled "Just Margo" released in 1979, the cover showed her wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be perceived more like a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to openly discuss sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Abruptly, she transformed back into her former role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time went on, she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly, receiving recognition and accolades for their music.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She supported herself by teaching others the art of yodeling, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith would return to Nashville and pass away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as their son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away prematurely are being remembered and honored. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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