Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. Known for her successful music in the late 1970s, she was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she left behind a collection of country and Christian hits.
Smith, originally known as Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the choice to pursue a career as a teacher instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame started when she first began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately secure a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her songs from the album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," became a popular hit and was seen as a daring statement.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is going to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / 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 the time, this was seen as daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be considered more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being a teacher from Ohio and showed remorse for this period in her life. According to Music Row, she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler in 1983, but ten years later, she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly, earning awards for their music.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years and dedicated herself to yodeling. She generated income by instructing others on how to yodel, with her most renowned pupil being Taylor Ware, the runner-up on 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 survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family requests that you contribute to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as a donation.
In memory: 40 country singers and songwriters who passed away prematurely. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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