Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was famously nicknamed "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she achieved great success with her collection of country and Christian hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith. Her interest in performing was ignited by a television show in her local area. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, 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 journey to fame took a unique turn when she began showcasing her singing talents in her classroom and later during meetings held by the parent teacher association. Her impressive performances caught the attention of radio stations, leading to opportunities for her to showcase her skills on air. Eventually, this exposure led to her creating a demo
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more noticeable manner. "Still a Woman," a popular song from her album titled A Woman, was particularly daring.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is going to take off tonight / Brace yourself as we soar through the sky / Remember, I am still a woman."
In the 1979 album "Just Margo" by Smith, the cover showed her wearing only a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit might be seen as more of a casual housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sex and her provocative concert performances helped increase ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and showed remorse for this particular 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 transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo named Margo Smith and Holly, earning accolades for their music.
During the later stages of her life, Smith relocated to Florida and dedicated her time to the practice of yodeling. She found a source of income by instructing others on how to yodel, with notable student Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A few days ago, she experienced a stroke. 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 individuals make a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as a way to support their cause.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who left us too early. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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