Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was famously nicknamed "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she amassed a remarkable collection of country and Christian hits that will continue to be cherished.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show in her community, and she even acquired 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, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This gradually led to opportunities for radio performances, eventually resulting in the creation of a demo record and the signing of a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity starting in 1979. One example of this was her song "Still a Woman," which became a popular hit and was considered to be quite daring.
In the chorus, she sings "Please close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is scheduled to depart tonight / Brace yourselves as we take off with great speed / 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 choice was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be more reminiscent of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Margo's willingness to discuss sex and incorporate more provocative performances into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her disappointment for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began embracing the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by instructing others in the art of yodeling, with one of her most renowned 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 stroke had occurred to her only a few days ago. Smith is survived by her spouse Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Acknowledgement: Billy Dukes
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