Country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was also referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she produced a significant collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being exposed to a television show in her local area. Additionally, she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, instead of pursuing a career as a country star, Smith chose to follow her aspiration of becoming a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took an atypical route as it started with her singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and subsequently signing a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her feminine side. "Still a Woman," a track from her album A Woman, achieved significant success by reaching the Top 10 charts, showcasing her remarkable courage and confidence.
At the chorus, she sings about closing the door and turning off the light. The plane is about to take off tonight, so she urges everyone to hold on tightly. Despite everything, she emphasizes that she is still a woman.
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing only a satin robe. Although it may be seen as more like a housecoat in 2024, at that time it was considered daring. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sexuality and her provocative performances helped boost ticket sales.
Abruptly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular 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 stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received prestigious awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by teaching others how to yodel, with Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006, being her most prominent student. Eventually, she returned to Nashville but sadly passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred only a few days ago. Smith's husband, Richard Cammeron, along with their son, two daughters, and other relatives, are the ones left behind after her passing.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that you consider making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who passed away prematurely. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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