Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she produced a vast collection of country and Christian music that resonated with audiences.
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, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country star, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took a unique path that began with her singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable manners. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album A Woman, was remarkably courageous.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane will be taking 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 daring cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. Although this may have been considered bold back then, it would resemble more of a housecoat in 2024. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss topics related to sex and her more provocative performances on stage helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative ideology. Alongside her daughter Holly, she created the successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by instructing others in the art of yodeling. Notably, Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006, became one of her renowned students. Eventually, she returned to Nashville but unfortunately passed away at the age of 84 on January 23.
A stroke had occurred only a few days before. 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 a contribution be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters whose lives were tragically cut short. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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