Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was famous for her successful run in the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she amassed a collection of country and Christian chart-topping hits, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose the name Smith as her stage name. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television program in her local area. Despite her early exposure to yodeling, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took a unique turn when she first showcased her singing talent in her classroom and later at parent teacher association meetings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her feminine identity more prominently in 1979. Her song "Still a Woman," which was featured on her album A Woman, became a Top 10 hit and was recognized for its remarkable courage.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is going to take off tonight / Hold on tight as we soar through the sky / I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover that showed her wearing a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit may be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and engaging concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this period in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983, she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later, she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the award-winning Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made a living by teaching others this skill. One of her notable students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her only a few days before. Smith is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that individuals contribute to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through a donation.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age, may they rest in peace. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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