Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Smith, who rose to fame in the late 1970s, was known for her successful chart-topping country and Christian music repertoire.
Betty Lou Miller, who later adopted the name Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show in her local area, which led her to even learn the art of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching instead of following her aspiration of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the unique journey towards fame for this individual began when she started singing in her classroom and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, and subsequently, she was able to create a demo record and secure a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly embrace her femininity. One of her Top 10 hits from the album "A Woman" called "Still a Woman" was particularly daring and brave.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is set to depart tonight / Brace yourself as we take flight / I'm still a woman."
Smith's album, Just Margo, released in 1979, had a bold cover that depicted her wearing a satin robe. This was considered daring at the time, although in 2024, the outfit might be seen more as a casual housecoat. While her popularity on country radio declined, Smith's willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate provocative elements into her live performances helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, there was a change and she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio. She expressed feeling sorry for this particular phase 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 a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she formed a successful Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
During the later years of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated herself to yodeling. She found a source of income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of 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 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 requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Photo Credit: Billy Dukes
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