Renowned country singer Margo Smith, famous for her impactful songs in the late 1970s, has passed away at the age of 84. She was affectionately referred to as "The Tennessee Yodeler" and was known for her extensive collection of country and Christian music hits.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, took on the stage name Smith. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show she watched in her locality. Despite learning how to yodel at a young age, she made the decision to pursue a career in teaching rather than following her aspirations of becoming a country star.
According to AllMusic, her unique 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 led to her creating a demo record and ultimately signing a recording contract.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One of her songs, "Still a Woman," which was included in her A Woman album, gained significant attention and became a successful Top 10 hit. This song was particularly notable for
As she sings in the chorus, she expresses the need to close the door, switch off the light, and prepare for takeoff on the plane. She emphasizes the importance of holding on tight as they embark on their journey. Throughout it all, she wants to remind everyone that she is still a woman.
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a daring cover where she posed in a satin robe. Although it may resemble a housecoat in 2024, at that time it was considered bold. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sex and incorporate provocative performances into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began to fully embrace her Tennessee Yodeler persona, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a highly acclaimed Christian country duo.
During the later part of her life, Smith relocated to Florida where she dedicated her time to yodeling. She was able to earn money by teaching others how to yodel, with one of her most well-known students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith returned to Nashville where she passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Just a few days ago, she had experienced a stroke. 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 requesting that individuals make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Credit for the Gallery: Billy Dukes
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