Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who achieved significant success in the late 1970s, has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler" and will be remembered for her vast collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performance was ignited by a television show in her local area, and she even mastered the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher instead of following her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame began when she first started singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which ultimately led to her creating a demo record and signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light, as the plane is going to take off tonight. Hold on tight, as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover that showed her wearing nothing but a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her openness about sexuality and provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this 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 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 the later stages of her life, where she dedicated herself to the art of yodeling and made a living by imparting her knowledge to others (including Taylor Ware, who gained fame as the runner-up in America's Got Talent 2006). 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 is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other family members.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who left us too soon. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
Additional content from the website Taste of Country can be found here. For more information