Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained fame in the late 1970s and was affectionately called "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she released a vast collection of successful country and Christian songs that will forever be remembered.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith at birth. Being exposed to a TV show in her local area, she found her passion for performing and even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which ultimately resulted in her creating a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more pronounced manner. The song "Still a Woman," which was a popular hit and featured on her album A Woman, was particularly courageous and daring.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to take off tonight. Hold on tight as we soar through the sky. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she reverted back to her identity as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to fully embrace her Tennessee Yodeler persona, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the stage names Margo Smith and Holly, forming a successful Christian country duo that received awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her most renowned students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville, but sadly passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is now 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 that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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