Margo Smith, a prominent singer in the country music genre, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her energetic performances and became a chart-topping artist in the late 1970s. Throughout her career, she gained recognition as "The Tennessee Yodeler" and had a diverse collection of successful country and Christian songs.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area, which prompted her to learn yodeling at a young age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher rather than chase her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her journey towards fame took an unconventional route as it started with her singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio, which then paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately secure a recording contract.
In 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner. One of the tracks from her album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," was a daring and successful Top 10 hit.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The airplane is set to take flight tonight. Hold on tight as we soar through the sky. Remember, despite everything, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover that showcased her wearing just a satin robe. At the time, this was considered daring, although in 2024 it might be seen as more of a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sexuality and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed feelings of remorse 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 accolades.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by instructing others on how to yodel, with Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006, being one of her most well-known students. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Just a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cameron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for Gallery: Billy Dukes
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