Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she created a vast collection of country and Christian music that resonated with audiences.
Smith, originally named Betty Lou Miller, was born in the city of Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show in her local area, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her aspiration of becoming a country music star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took an unconventional route as it began with her singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio, which in turn led to her creating a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner starting in 1979. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," from the A Woman album, gained significant popularity and was considered to be quite daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is going to take off tonight / Brace yourself tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing solely a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss topics related to sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
After some time, she returned to her previous role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this period in her life. It is noted by Music Row that in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly, which received awards.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated her time to yodeling. She supported herself by teaching others how to yodel, with one of her 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.
A stroke had occurred to her only a few days ago. Smith's family includes her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory of 40 country singers and songwriters who passed away prematurely, may they rest in peace. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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