Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she blessed the music industry with a plethora of successful country and Christian songs, leaving behind a remarkable collection of hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, had a birth name of Smith. She was influenced to pursue a career in performing after being exposed to a television show in her local area. Despite acquiring the skill of yodeling at a young age, she ultimately made the decision to become a teacher instead of pursuing her aspiration of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's journey towards fame took a unique route. It started when she began singing in her classroom and later during meetings organized by the parent teacher association. These performances eventually caught the attention of radio stations, leading to opportunities for her to showcase her talent on air. As a result, she was able to
From 1979 onwards, Smith started expressing her feminine identity more openly. One of the songs from her A Woman album, titled "Still a Woman," was particularly daring and managed to reach the Top 10 charts.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane will take off tonight / Hold on tight as we're about to fly / Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's album, Just Margo, released in 1979, had a bold cover art where she was seen wearing only a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although by 2024, the outfit might be seen more like a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and her provocative live performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her previous role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this phase of her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned towards more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo called Margo Smith and Holly, which received accolades and recognition.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She also made money by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her most notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of 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 had 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 requesting that individuals donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory of 40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age, we pay our respects.
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