Margo Smith, a talented country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was widely recognized in the late 1970s for her successful songs, and later gained the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she produced a collection of popular country and Christian music.
Smith, originally known as Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the conscious choice to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began when she first started showcasing her singing talent in her classroom and later in parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which ultimately resulted in her creating a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her feminine qualities. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album called A Woman, was particularly courageous.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The airplane will take off tonight. Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky. I remain a woman."
In Smith's album, Just Margo, released in 1979, she appeared on the cover wearing just a satin robe. This was considered bold at the time, but by 2024, the outfit may look more like a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her more provocative performances during concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for 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 a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time and energy to yodeling. She found a source of income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her most notable 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's family includes her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting donations to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Who Passed Away Prematurely
Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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