Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who was widely recognized as "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, which peaked in the late 1970s, she delivered numerous chart-topping country and Christian songs, leaving a rich musical legacy behind.
Betty Lou Miller, who later became known as Smith, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her interest in performing was sparked by a television show in her local area, and she even acquired the skill of yodeling at a young age. However, she made the choice to pursue a career in teaching rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star.
According to AllMusic, the unique journey towards fame for this individual began when she started showcasing her singing talents in her classroom and later during 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.
Starting in 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity. One example of this was her song "Still a Woman," which became a popular hit and was seen as a courageous move.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is set to fly tonight / Brace yourself as we take off swiftly / Remember, I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album "Just Margo" had a bold cover featuring her wearing a satin robe, which was considered daring at the time. However, by 2024, the outfit might be perceived more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her openness about sexuality and more provocative concert performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of the blue, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed remorse for this phase in her life. Music Row highlights that in 1983, she began to adopt the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later, she transitioned into more deeply conservative beliefs. Alongside her daughter Holly, she transformed into Margo Smith and Holly, a successful Christian country duo that received accolades.
Smith relocated to Florida during the latter part of her life, where she devoted her attention to the art of yodeling. She generated revenue by instructing others in the skill of yodeling, with one of her notable students being Taylor Ware, the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she came back to Nashville and passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
A stroke had occurred to her a few days ago. Smith is still alive and is survived by her spouse Richard Cammeron, along with one son, two daughters, and other relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family is requesting that individuals make a contribution to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age are being remembered and mourned. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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