Margo Smith, a popular country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a talented artist who achieved great success in the late 1970s and was later recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler." Throughout her career, she produced numerous successful songs in both the country and Christian music genres.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith when she was born. Her passion for performing was ignited by a television show she watched locally. At a young age, she even acquired the skill of yodeling. However, despite her aspirations of becoming a country star, she ultimately chose to pursue a career in teaching.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took an unconventional route, starting with her singing in class and later at parent-teacher association gatherings. This eventually led to opportunities for radio performances, which in turn resulted in the creation of a demo record and ultimately securing a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly embrace her femininity in a more pronounced manner. Her song "Still a Woman," which was featured in her album A Woman, was particularly daring and managed to achieve a place in the Top 10 charts.
In the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light. The plane is scheduled to take flight tonight. Hold on tightly as we soar through the sky. Despite everything, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a bold cover where she was depicted wearing a satin robe, which was considered daring at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit may be seen more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her open discussions about sex and provocative performances during concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Unexpectedly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this particular phase in her life. The music industry publication, Music Row, highlights that in 1983 she began to embody the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into more conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the stage name Margo Smith and Holly, forming an acclaimed Christian country duo.
During her later stages of life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She generated revenue by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville, and unfortunately passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her 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 consider making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In loving memory: 40 talented country singers and songwriters who left us too early. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
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