Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a successful artist in the late 1970s and became known as "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she achieved chart-topping success in both the country and Christian music genres.
The person known as Smith originally had the name Betty Lou Miller and was born in Dayton, Ohio. Their interest in performing was sparked by a television show in their local area. They even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing a career as a country star, Smith opted to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began when she first showcased her singing skills in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then paved the way for her to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of the tracks from her album A Woman called "Still a Woman" became a Top 10 hit and was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is scheduled to take flight tonight / Hold on tight as we embark on this journey / Remember, I am still a woman."
In the year 1979, Smith's album titled "Just Margo" had a bold cover. It depicted her wearing only a satin robe, which was quite daring during that time. However, in the year 2024, the outfit would be more commonly associated with a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Margo's openness to discussing sexuality and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and admitted that she regretted this phase of her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006, being her most renowned student. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her only a few days ago. Smith is no longer alive, but she 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 donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Who Passed Away Prematurely
Photo Gallery Attribution: Billy Dukes
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