Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was subsequently referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she released a diverse collection of country and Christian songs that achieved chart success.
Betty Lou Miller, who later adopted the stage name 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 dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame began when she first showcased her singing abilities in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in her making a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner starting in 1979. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was a successful Top 10 hit from her album called A Woman, demonstrated her courage and audacity.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tight as we soar through the sky. Despite everything, I am still a woman."
In Smith's Just Margo album (1979), the front cover depicted her wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time, even though it may appear more like a housecoat in 2024. Her openness to discussing sex and incorporating more daring elements into her live performances helped boost ticket sales, even as her popularity on country radio declined.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed 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 latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others (notably, Taylor Ware, who became a well-known student after being the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006). Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
She had experienced a stroke just a few days ago. Smith is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other close relatives.
The family is requesting that instead of sending flowers, they would appreciate it if you could make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
Additional content from Taste of Country can be found here. For more information, please