Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was popular in the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she created a significant repertoire of country and Christian music that resonated with audiences.
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited after watching a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even mastered the art of yodeling. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she started showcasing her singing talent in her school class and later during parent teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn led to the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her hits from the album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," was particularly daring and reached the Top 10.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is ready to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album titled "Just Margo" had a bold cover where she was seen wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring at that time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness to discuss sexuality and her more provocative performances helped boost ticket sales.
All of a sudden, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began embracing the identity of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she had transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the stage names Margo Smith and Holly, and together they formed a successful Christian country music duo that received awards.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by instructing others in the art of yodeling, with Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006, being one of her most renowned students. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
A stroke had occurred to her a few days ago. Smith's husband, Richard Cammeron, and her extended family are the ones who are left behind after her passing. She also leaves behind a son and two daughters.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that anyone wishing to make a contribution consider donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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