Margo Smith, a renowned country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a highly successful artist in the late 1970s and was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she produced a significant collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, later known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show in her locality. She even acquired the skill of yodeling at a tender age. However, she chose to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her unconventional journey to fame started when she began singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which then resulted in her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a professional recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to express her femininity more openly. 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 going to take off tonight. Hold on tight, as we embark on this journey. Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing a satin robe. Back then, it was considered daring, although in 2024 it might resemble more of a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her willingness to openly discuss sex and incorporate provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this period in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to embrace the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly, earning several awards.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling and made money by teaching others how to yodel. One of her most well-known students was Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she moved back to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred only a few days prior to her passing. Smith is survived by her spouse, 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 donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memoriam: 40 talented individuals from the country music industry who passed away prematurely. Credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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