Margo Smith, a popular country singer known for her dynamic music, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a well-known artist in the late 1970s and gained fame as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she produced a collection of country and Christian hits that will be remembered.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area, where she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she ultimately made the choice to pursue a career in teaching instead of chasing her aspirations of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took a unique route as it started with her singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and eventually signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to express her femininity more openly and noticeably. "Still a Woman," a song from her A Woman album, became a Top 10 hit and was particularly daring.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to fly tonight. Prepare for takeoff and hold on tightly. I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album titled "Just Margo" had a bold cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. Back then, it was considered daring, but in 2024, it would be seen more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and her provocative stage performances 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, she began embracing the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler in 1983, but ten years later she had transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo called Margo Smith and Holly, which earned them numerous awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and earned money by instructing others in the art of yodeling. One of her most well-known students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23rd 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.
The family is kindly requesting that instead of sending flowers, individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who tragically passed away before their time. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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