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 achieved significant success with a collection of country and Christian chart-topping songs.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited after watching a television show in her local area. She even developed the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, rather than 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 began singing in her school and later during meetings organized by the parent teacher association. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, and subsequently, she was able to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her remarkable acts was the release of the Top 10 hit "Still a Woman" from her album A Woman.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Brace yourself as we soar through the sky. Remember, I am still a woman."
In the 1979 album "Just Margo" by Smith, the cover showed her wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit may be seen more as a casual housecoat. Although her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to openly discuss sex and incorporate provocative performances in her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
All of a sudden, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed sorrow for this period 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 stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that won awards.
In her older age, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville, but unfortunately passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred a few days ago. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that any contributions be made as a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered and honored. These talented individuals left us too soon, leaving behind a void in the country music industry
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