Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was fondly referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she produced a vast collection of successful country and Christian songs that will continue to be cherished by fans.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith at birth. 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, despite her aspirations of becoming a country star, she chose to pursue a career as a teacher instead.
According to AllMusic, her unconventional 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 in turn resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her popular songs, "Still a Woman," from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is set to take flight tonight. Hang on tight as we soar through the skies. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album called "Just Margo" had a daring cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, such a choice of outfit was considered bold, although in 2024, it might look more like a housecoat. Even though her popularity on country radio was declining, Smith's willingness to discuss sex and incorporate provocative performances in her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she transitioned back into her role as a teacher from Ohio and felt remorseful about this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she shifted towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she established herself as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She generated revenue by imparting yodeling lessons to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville, and sadly passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her only a few days ago. Smith's husband, Richard Cammeron, and her extended family survive her, along with one son and two daughters.
Instead of sending flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made 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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