Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was famously called "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she was known for her remarkable success on the country and Christian music charts, leaving behind a rich collection of memorable hits.
Betty Lou Miller, later known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. She developed a passion for performing after being influenced by a television program in her local area. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching instead of pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, her unconventional journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn led to the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable manners. "Still a Woman," a track from her A Woman album that made it to the Top 10, was incredibly daring.
At the chorus, she melodically sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is scheduled to depart 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 only a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sex and her provocative live performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this period of her life. Music Row notes that in 1983, she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later, she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the duo Margo Smith and Holly, which went on to win awards as a Christian country act.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to the art of yodeling. She found success by teaching others how to yodel and even gained recognition for instructing Taylor Ware, who was a prominent participant in America's Got Talent 2006. Smith eventually returned to Nashville, and sadly passed away on January 23rd at the age of 84.
Recently, she had experienced a stroke only a couple of days ago. Smith's passing leaves behind her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as a son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that individuals make a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In remembrance: 40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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