Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her energetic and successful country songs in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian hits that will be remembered.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose to pursue a career in teaching despite her early passion for performing, which was sparked by a local television program and her ability to yodel. Instead of chasing her dream of becoming a country star, she decided to focus on becoming a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her journey towards fame took a unique turn when she first started singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, and subsequently, she recorded a demo and secured a contract with a music label.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of the songs from her album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," became a daring and successful Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings about closing the door, turning off the light, and preparing for the plane to take off. She emphasizes the need to hold on tight as they embark on this journey. Throughout it all, she wants to remind everyone that she is still a woman.
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a daring cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. Although it may resemble a housecoat in 2024, at that time it was considered bold. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed feelings of sorrow for this period in 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 a successful Christian country duo called Margo Smith and Holly, receiving recognition and accolades for their work.
During the later years of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated her time to yodeling. She earned money by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, who became the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Just a few days ago, she had 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 requesting that you make a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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