Margo Smith, a renowned country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a highly successful artist in the late 1970s and gained fame as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, Smith released numerous country and Christian music hits, leaving behind a remarkable collection of songs.
Betty Lou Miller, later known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began when she first showcased her singing abilities in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which further paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately secure a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was a popular hit and part of her album called A Woman, was particularly daring and courageous.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to take off tonight. Brace yourself for the ride, as we soar through the skies. Remember, I am still a woman."
In the album cover of Smith's "Just Margo" released in 1979, she appeared wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness to discuss sex and her more daring performances on stage helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this period in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to embrace the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo.
Smith relocated to Florida during her elderly years and dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with her most renowned student being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville but sadly passed away on January 23rd at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her only a few days before. 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 kindly requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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