Renowned country artist Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she had a successful collection of country and Christian music hits.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. Interestingly, she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, Smith made the conscious choice to pursue a career as a teacher rather than pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This ultimately led to opportunities for radio performances, which then led to the creation of a demo record and eventually securing a recording contract.
Smith started openly expressing her femininity in a more noticeable manner in 1979. One of the standout tracks from her album "A Woman," titled "Still a Woman," achieved significant success by reaching the Top 10 charts. This song was particularly daring and
She sings at the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane will be flying tonight. Hold on tightly as we take off. I am still a woman."
In Smith's album "Just Margo" released in 1979, the cover depicted her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, it was considered bold and daring, although by 2024, the attire might be seen more like a casual housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to openly discuss sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she reverted back to being a teacher from Ohio. She admitted to feeling remorseful about this phase 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 direction. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly.
Smith relocated to Florida during the latter part of her life, where her main focus became yodeling. She managed to generate income by teaching others the art of yodeling, and one of her notable students was Taylor Ware, the runner-up of 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 only a couple of days ago. Smith is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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