Margo Smith, a renowned country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a successful artist in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she left behind a collection of popular country and Christian music songs.
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Growing up, she found inspiration in a local television show and developed a talent for yodeling from a young age. However, instead of pursuing a career as a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began showcasing her singing talent in her classroom and later during parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then paved the way for her to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her bold moves was releasing "Still a Woman," a popular song from her A Woman album that reached the Top 10 charts.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is scheduled to fly tonight / We're about to take off, so hold on tightly / I'm still a female."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate provocative performances in her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she transformed back into the teacher from Ohio and expressed her sadness about this period in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983, she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later, she had transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo Margo Smith and Holly, receiving awards for their music.
During the later stage of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others. One of her notable students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Smith eventually returned to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Just a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
The family is kindly requesting that instead of sending flowers, they would greatly appreciate if you could make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered and honored. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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