Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who achieved great success in the late 1970s, has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler" and was recognized for her extensive collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show she watched in her local area. Despite developing a talent for yodeling at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher rather than chasing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which ultimately resulted in her making a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly embrace her femininity. One of her notable songs, "Still a Woman," from her album A Woman, became a daring Top 10 hit.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is going to take flight tonight / Hold on tightly as we take off / I am still a woman."
In the year 1979, Smith's album called "Just Margo" had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, this was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit may resemble more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sex and her provocative stage performances helped increase ticket sales.
Abruptly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time passed, she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later stage of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by instructing others in the art of yodeling. Notably, she taught Taylor Ware, who gained fame as the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days prior, she had experienced 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 kindly requests making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who tragically passed away at a young age. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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