Margo Smith, a successful country singer known for her energetic songs, has passed away at the age of 84. She gained popularity in the late 1970s, topping the music charts with her catchy tunes. In addition to her country hits, she also had a collection of successful Christian songs. Margo Smith was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler."
Betty Lou Miller, who later changed her name to Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She found inspiration in a local TV show and developed a knack for yodeling at a young age. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she chose to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later during parent teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately, a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly embrace her femininity. Her song "Still a Woman," which was featured on her A Woman album, was not only successful but also very daring.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tight as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's album Just Margo, released in 1979, had a bold cover where she appeared wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring back then, although by 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a housecoat. Despite a decline in her popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about topics like sex and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she returned to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her dissatisfaction with this phase of her life. According to Music Row, 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 transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that won awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling and made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others (notably, Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent 2006, was one of her most renowned students). Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23, at the age of 84.
Just a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. Smith leaves behind her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other family members.
Instead of sending flowers, the family would appreciate if you could donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Taken from Us Prematurely
Credit for Gallery: Billy Dukes
Additional content from Taste of Country can be found on our website. For more information