Margo Smith, a successful country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She gained popularity in the late 1970s and was often referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian hit songs.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, took on the stage name Smith. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her hometown, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the choice to pursue a career in teaching rather than following her aspirations of becoming a renowned country music artist.
According to AllMusic, the unique journey towards fame for this individual began when she first showcased her singing talent in her classroom and later during meetings organized by the parent-teacher association. This eventually paved the way for her to perform on radio shows, which subsequently resulted in the opportunity to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was featured on her A Woman album, became a popular hit and was particularly audacious.
She sings the chorus, saying "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is going to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In the album cover of Smith's Just Margo released in 1979, she was depicted wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more akin to a housecoat. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate provocative performances during her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed feelings of regret for this particular phase in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983, she began to adopt the identity of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time went on, she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she rebranded as Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that garnered recognition and awards.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years and dedicated her time to yodeling. She generated revenue by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with notable student Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville, but unfortunately passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Gallery Attribution: Billy Dukes
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