Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained fame 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 great success with numerous chart-topping country and Christian songs, leaving behind a remarkable collection of music.
Betty Lou Miller, who later adopted the name Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, instead of pursuing a career as 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 talent in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which subsequently resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a song from her A Woman album that reached the Top 10 charts, was incredibly daring.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tightly as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover that portrayed her wearing nothing but a satin robe. Although it may seem like a simple housecoat by today's standards in 2024, back then it was considered daring. As her popularity on country radio declined, her openness about topics like sex and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular period of 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 mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the duo Margo Smith and Holly, which achieved success in the Christian country genre and received various awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years and dedicated her time to yodeling. She earned a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with notable pupil Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and sadly passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Just a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other family members.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that a contribution be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Image credit: Billy Dukes
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