Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her successful music career in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian hit songs, leaving behind a rich collection of music.
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Growing up, she found inspiration in a TV show and even developed a talent for yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing a career as a country star, she chose to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which further led to the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane will be taking off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover image where she appeared in a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a casual housecoat. Although her popularity on country radio declined, Smith's openness about sexuality and her provocative stage performances helped to boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular period in her life. According to Music Row, it is noted that in 1983 she began to adopt the Tennessee Yodeler identity, 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 received accolades.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She successfully generated income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with her most renowned pupil being Taylor Ware, 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.
Recently, she experienced a stroke only a short while ago. Smith is now deceased and is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as her son, two daughters, and other relatives who are part of her extended family.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that individuals make a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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