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 illustrious career, she amassed an impressive collection of country and Christian hits, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith later on. 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, instead of pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country star, she made the choice to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the journey to fame for this artist took an unconventional route. It all started when she began singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This caught the attention of radio stations, which eventually led to her recording a demo and signing a contract with a record label.
Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner from 1979 onwards. One of her bold moves during this time was the release of "Still a Woman," a track from her A Woman album, which became a Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is set to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's Just Margo album had a daring cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. Although it may resemble more of a housecoat in 2024, back then it was considered bold. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to fully adopt the Tennessee Yodeler persona, but as the years went by, she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others. Notably, she taught Taylor Ware, who became the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23.
She had experienced a stroke only a few days ago. Smith is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
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