Iconic country singer Margo Smith, who was widely recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, which peaked in the late 1970s, she achieved great success on the country music charts and also released several popular Christian songs. Her extensive catalog is a testament to her talent and enduring legacy in both genres.
Smith, originally known as Betty Lou Miller, was born in Dayton, Ohio. 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, she made the choice to pursue a career in education rather than chasing her dream of becoming a country music sensation.
According to AllMusic, the unique journey to fame for this individual started when she began singing in her classroom and later during meetings organized by the parent-teacher association. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio, which then paved the way for her to create a demo recording and secure a contract with a record label.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable ways. "Still a Woman," a song from her A Woman album, became a daring Top 10 hit.
As the chorus plays, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to take off tonight. Brace yourselves tightly as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's album Just Margo, released in 1979, had a bold cover featuring her wearing just a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, 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 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 had moved towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the duo Margo Smith and Holly, gaining recognition as an accomplished Christian country act.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made money by instructing others in the art of yodeling. One of her well-known students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
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 members of her extended family.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting for individuals to contribute to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as a donation.
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Gallery Attribution: Billy Dukes
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