Margo Smith, a well-known country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a talented artist who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she produced a collection of successful country and Christian hits.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television program in her local area, which led her to even acquire the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her childhood dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances and ultimately resulted in her securing a demo record and a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable manners. One of her Top 10 hits, called "Still a Woman," from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is scheduled to take flight tonight / Hold on tightly as we lift off / I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a provocative cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit may be perceived as more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate provocative performances into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed feeling sorry for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to embrace the Tennessee Yodeler identity, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her most notable students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up in America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and 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 relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family requests that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Photo Credit: Billy Dukes
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