Country singer Margo Smith, who was known for her dynamic hits in the late 1970s and later earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, Smith achieved success in both the country and Christian music genres, leaving behind a rich collection of popular songs.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose to pursue a career as a teacher rather than her childhood aspiration of becoming a country star, despite being influenced by a television show and acquiring yodeling skills at a young age.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities to perform on radio shows, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo recording and ultimately securing a contract with a record label.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was featured in her album titled A Woman, became a daring and successful Top 10 hit.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to fly tonight. Brace yourself as we take off. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover featuring her wearing just a satin robe. Although it might be seen as more like a casual housecoat in 2024, at that time it was considered daring. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sex and the use of provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, a transformation occurred and she reverted back to her previous identity as a teacher from Ohio. She expressed feelings of remorse for this particular phase in her life. Music Row highlights how in 1983, she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time passed, she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she established themselves as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received accolades in the industry.
During the later stage of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with her most renowned student being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
She had recently experienced a stroke only a few days ago. 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 kindly requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In Memoriam: 40 Country Singers and Songwriters Whose Lives Ended Prematurely
Credit for Gallery: Billy Dukes
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