Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. Smith, who rose to fame in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has left behind a remarkable collection of country and Christian music hits.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she ultimately chose the path of becoming a teacher rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame started when she began showcasing her singing talent in her classroom and later at parent teacher association gatherings. These initial performances eventually led to opportunities to showcase her talent on radio. As a result, she was able to create a demo record, which ultimately led to her signing a recording
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her songs called "Still a Woman," which was included in her album titled A Woman, became a popular hit and was considered daring for its time.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is going to take off tonight / Hold on tight as we embark on this journey / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith released her album "Just Margo" with a bold cover featuring her wearing a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, by 2024, the outfit may be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her diminishing popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she devoted her attention to yodeling. She generated an income by instructing others on how to yodel, with one of her most well-known students being 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.
Only a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. Smith 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.
Memorial: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Who Passed Away Prematurely
Acknowledgment: Billy Dukes
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