Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately called "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she released numerous successful country and Christian songs, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose the name Smith as her stage name. She developed a passion for performing after being exposed to a television show in her local area. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than follow her dreams of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. As a result, she had the opportunity to perform on radio shows, which eventually led to her creating a demo record and signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her remarkable and daring moves was the release of "Still a Woman," a Top 10 hit from her album called A Woman.
As she sings in the chorus, she says, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is set to take off tonight. Hold on tightly as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album 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 a decline in popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she returned to being the teacher from Ohio. She expressed feeling sorry for this period in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated herself to the art of yodeling and generated income by imparting yodeling lessons to others. Notably, Taylor Ware, the runner-up in the 2006 season of America's Got Talent, was one of her most renowned students. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23rd at the age of 84.
She had experienced a stroke only a few days ago. Smith 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 donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Who Passed Away Prematurely
Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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