Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her lively country songs in the late 1970s and was also recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous successful country and Christian hits.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, instead of pursuing her aspirations of becoming a country star, she made the decision to become a teacher.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later during meetings organized by the parent teacher association. 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.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more pronounced manner. One of the tracks from her album A Woman, titled "Still a Woman," achieved significant success by reaching the Top 10 charts, showcasing her fearless and confident
As the chorus plays, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is about to take off tonight. Hang on tight as we soar through the skies. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover featuring her wearing nothing but a satin robe. At that time, this was considered daring, although in 2024, the outfit may resemble more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sexuality and her provocative performances helped boost ticket sales for her concerts.
After some time, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her disappointment with this period in her life. According to Music Row, she initially adopted the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler in 1983, but as the years went by, she moved towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received several awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life where she dedicated her time and efforts to yodeling. She found a source of income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. However, she eventually returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her only a short while ago. Smith's husband, Richard Cammeron, and her extended family are left behind, along with one son and two daughters.
The family is kindly requesting that instead of sending flowers, individuals contribute a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Who Passed Away Prematurely
Photo Credit: Billy Dukes
Additional content from Taste of Country
Details
Stay connected with us