Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained fame in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she produced numerous chart-topping country and Christian hits, leaving behind a remarkable collection of music.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose to pursue a career in teaching instead of following her childhood aspiration to become a country star. Despite her early passion for performing and even acquiring the skill of yodeling, she was inspired by a local TV show to dedicate her life to education.
According to AllMusic, the singer's journey to fame took a unique trajectory that commenced with her singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This initial exposure eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately secure a recording contract.
Smith started to openly express her femininity starting in 1979. One notable example of this was her song "Still a Woman," which achieved significant success and was considered daring at the time.
In the chorus, she sings about closing the door and turning off the light, indicating that the plane is about to take off. She urges everyone to hold on tight as they embark on their journey. Despite everything, she wants to emphasize that she is still a woman.
In 1979, Smith's Just Margo album had a bold cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. At that time, this was considered daring, even though in 2024 the outfit might resemble more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sex and her provocative concert performances helped increase ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this period in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she had transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the latter part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made money by teaching others the art of yodeling. Notably, Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006, was one of her most renowned students. Later, she would return to Nashville and 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 a 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.
40 talented country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age, may they rest in peace. Image credits go to Billy Dukes.
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