Margo Smith, a highly talented country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She gained popularity in the late 1970s with her chart-topping songs and was often referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she produced a vast collection of successful country and Christian music.
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 young age. However, instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country star, she chose a different path and decided to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame began when she started showcasing her singing talent in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on the radio, which then resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her feminine qualities. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album called A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane will be taking off tonight / Hold on tight as we soar through the sky / I'm still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, it was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit may be seen more like a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to openly discuss sex and incorporate provocative elements into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she transitioned back into being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time went on, she moved towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that won awards.
As she got older, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made money by teaching others the art of yodeling. One of her most 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.
Recently, she had experienced a stroke only a few days ago. Smith's family includes her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives who will continue to live on.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who left us too early. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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