Margo Smith, a well-known country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a prolific artist in the late 1970s and earned the nickname "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she released numerous successful country and Christian songs.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, chose the name Smith as her stage name. She was influenced by a television show in her local area, which sparked her interest in performing. Despite her talent for yodeling at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame began when she first showcased her singing abilities in her classroom and later during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her feminine side in more noticeable manners. One of her notable acts was releasing the song "Still a Woman," which became a Top 10 hit from her album titled A Woman. This song was particularly bold
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is set to take off tonight / Hold on tightly as we embark on this flight / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover featuring her wearing just a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be perceived more as a casual housecoat. Despite her decreasing popularity on country radio, Smith's openness about sexuality and her provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed sadness 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 into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the name Margo Smith and Holly, and together they formed a successful Christian country act that received awards.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated herself to the art of yodeling. She made a living by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her prominent students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville. Sadly, she passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
She had experienced a stroke only a few days ago. 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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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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