Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was known for her successful music career in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released a collection of country and Christian songs that became chart-toppers.
Betty Lou Miller, who later adopted the stage name Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show in her local area. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she ultimately chose to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, the singer's unique journey to 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, which ultimately resulted in her making a demo record and securing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in more noticeable ways. "Still a Woman," which was a popular song from her album A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is set to take flight tonight / Hang on tight as we embark / Remember, I am still a woman."
Smith's Just Margo album (1979) had a bold cover, where she was depicted wearing only a satin robe. This choice was considered daring at the time, although in 2024 it may be seen more as a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and her provocative stage performances helped boost ticket sales.
After a sudden change, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began embracing the identity of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned towards a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the name Margo Smith and Holly, and together they became an acclaimed Christian country duo.
During her later years, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She made a living by teaching yodeling to others, with one of her most well-known students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up in America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she moved back to Nashville and passed away at the age of 84 on January 23rd.
Only a few days ago, she experienced a stroke. Smith leaves behind her husband Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is kindly requesting that a contribution be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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