Renowned country singer Margo Smith, who gained popularity in the late 1970s and was affectionately called "The Tennessee Yodeler," has passed away at the age of 84. Throughout her career, she achieved great success with numerous chart-topping country and Christian songs, leaving behind a remarkable collection of music.
Betty Lou Miller was born in Dayton, Ohio and later went by the name Smith. She developed a passion for performing after watching a television show in her local area. At a young age, she even learned how to yodel. However, despite her dreams of becoming a country star, she made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher instead.
According to AllMusic, her unique journey towards 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 paved the way for her to create a demo record and ultimately secure a recording contract.
From 1979 onwards, Smith started to openly express her feminine qualities. One of her notable achievements during this time was the release of the Top 10 hit song "Still a Woman," which showcased her courage and confidence.
At the chorus, she sings, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The plane is ready to take off tonight / Hold on tight as we soar through the sky / I am still a woman."
In 1979, Smith's album Just Margo had a daring cover that showed her wearing only a satin robe. Although it may look more like a housecoat in 2024, at that time it was considered bold. As her popularity on country radio declined, her willingness to discuss sexuality and incorporate more provocative elements into her concerts helped boost ticket sales.
Suddenly, she reverted back to being the teacher from Ohio and expressed her regret for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began adopting the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative stance. Together with her daughter Holly, she formed the highly acclaimed Christian country duo known as Margo Smith and Holly.
Smith relocated to Florida in the later stages of her life, where she dedicated her time to the art of yodeling. She generated income by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with one notable student being Taylor Ware, the runner-up of America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, she returned to Nashville, but unfortunately passed away on January 23 at the age of 84.
Recently, she experienced a stroke only a few days ago. Smith is no longer with us and is survived by her spouse, Richard Cammeron, as well as one son, two daughters, and other close relatives.
Instead of sending flowers, the family would appreciate it if you make a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
40 country singers and songwriters who passed away prematurely are being remembered and honored. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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