Renowned country singer Margo Smith has passed away at the age of 84. The talented artist, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was later referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has left behind an impressive collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given birth to as Smith. Her interest in performing was sparked 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 dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame began when she first started singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a song from her A Woman album, was incredibly daring and became a Top 10 hit.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane will be flying tonight / Hold on tight as we take off / I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album called Just Margo had a cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. This was considered bold at the time, although in 2024, the outfit would be more similar to a housecoat. Despite a decline in her popularity on country radio, her openness about sex and her use of provocative performances helped boost ticket sales for her concerts.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, she began adopting the Tennessee Yodeler persona in 1983, but ten years later, she transitioned towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo Margo Smith and Holly, receiving awards for their musical contributions.
Smith relocated to Florida in her later life and dedicated her time to yodeling. She generated income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with her most renowned pupil being Taylor Ware, who was 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.
A stroke had occurred to her 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 donations to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who tragically passed away at a young age. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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