Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she produced an impressive collection of country and Christian music hits, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, despite her aspirations of becoming a country star, she opted to pursue a career in teaching.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later expanded to singing during parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately sign a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her popular songs, "Still a Woman," from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring and made it to the Top 10 charts.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is set to take flight tonight. Hold on tight as we soar through the sky. Remember, I am still a woman."
In Smith's album Just Margo (1979), the album cover showed her wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time, although in 2024 it would resemble more of a housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, her openness about sex and more daring performances on stage helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to her role as a teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but as time went on, she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed the successful Christian country duo Margo Smith and Holly, receiving accolades for their work.
Smith relocated to Florida during her later years, where she dedicated her time to yodeling and supported herself by teaching others this skill. One of her most notable students was Taylor Ware, the runner-up in America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A few days prior, she experienced a stroke. Smith is survived by her husband, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other family members.
The family is requesting that instead of sending flowers, people make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Remembering 40 talented country singers and songwriters who left this world prematurely. Credit for the accompanying gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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