Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s, was affectionately known as "The Tennessee Yodeler" and was recognized for her numerous successful country and Christian songs.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Growing up, she found inspiration in a local TV show and developed a talent for yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she chose to pursue a career in teaching.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her school and later at parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led her to opportunities for radio performances, resulting in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity. The song "Still a Woman" from her album A Woman gained popularity and reached the Top 10 charts, showcasing her confidence and audacity.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is scheduled to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, the album cover for Smith's "Just Margo" showed her wearing only a satin robe, which was considered bold at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit would be seen more as a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Margo's openness about sex and her daring performances during concerts helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her regret for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Together with her daughter Holly, she became known as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo who received awards for their music.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others. Notably, she taught Taylor Ware, who gained recognition as the runner-up in America's Got Talent 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville, and sadly, she passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred only a few days prior to her passing. 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 you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented individuals in the country music industry who left us too early. Credits for the gallery go to Billy Dukes.
Additional Content from Taste of Country
Details
Connect with Us