Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was also referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she had a remarkable collection of country and Christian hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited after watching a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching instead of pursuing 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 at parent-teacher association meetings. This eventually led to her getting opportunities to perform on radio shows, which ultimately resulted in her creating a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her notable acts was the release of the Top 10 hit "Still a Woman" from her album titled A Woman, which displayed her remarkable courage and confidence.
In the chorus, she sings about shutting the door, turning off the light, and preparing for the plane to take off. She emphasizes the importance of holding on tightly during the flight. Through these lyrics, she reaffirms her identity as a woman.
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a daring cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, but nowadays it might be seen as more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her willingness to discuss sex and engage in provocative concert performances helped boost her ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she returned to being a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this period 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 more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the duo Margo Smith and Holly, which went on to win awards for their Christian country music.
Smith relocated to Florida during the latter part of her life and dedicated herself to yodeling. She generated revenue by instructing others in the art of yodeling, with Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006, being her most renowned pupil. Eventually, she would return to Nashville, where she passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Just a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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