Margo Smith, a talented country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her vibrant music in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she created a collection of successful country and Christian songs.
In Dayton, Ohio, a woman named Betty Lou Miller was born. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher instead of following her dream of becoming a country music sensation.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame began when she first started singing in her classroom and later during meetings of the parent teacher association. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of the songs from her A Woman album, called "Still a Woman," became a daring Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane will take off tonight / Hang on tight as we embark on our journey / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album called "Just Margo" had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness to discuss sex and her more provocative performances during concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her sorrow for this period 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 a more conservative realm. Alongside her daughter Holly, she became known as Margo Smith and Holly, an acclaimed Christian country duo.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by teaching others how to yodel, with her most renowned student 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.
Just a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. Smith is no longer with us, but she is survived by her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly 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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