Margo Smith, a talented country singer, has passed away at the age of 84. She was a successful artist in the late 1970s and was affectionately called "The Tennessee Yodeler". Throughout her career, she released numerous country and Christian hit songs, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Betty Lou Miller, originally from Dayton, Ohio, was given the name Smith. She discovered her passion for performing after being influenced by a television program in her local area. Even though she developed the skill of yodeling at a young age, she ultimately chose to pursue a career in education rather than pursuing her dream of becoming a country music artist.
According to AllMusic, her journey to fame took an unconventional route as it started with her singing in her classroom and later during meetings of the parent teacher association. This eventually led to her getting opportunities to perform on radio, which further paved the way for her to create a demo record and eventually secure a recording contract.
Starting from 1979, Smith started to openly express her femininity in a more pronounced manner. "Still a Woman," a highly successful song from her album titled A Woman, stood out for its audaciousness.
She sings in the chorus, "Simply close the door and switch off the light / The airplane is going to take off tonight / Hold on tight as we embark on this journey / I remain a woman."
On the cover of Smith's album "Just Margo" released in 1979, she appeared wearing a satin robe, which was considered bold at that time. However, in 2024, the outfit may be perceived more like a housecoat. Despite her declining popularity on country radio, her willingness to discuss sex openly and incorporate provocative elements into her live performances helped boost ticket sales.
Out of nowhere, she unexpectedly returned to being the teacher from Ohio and showed remorse for this particular phase in her life. According to Music Row, in 1983 she began embracing the persona of the Tennessee Yodeler, but ten years later she transitioned into a more conservative mindset. Alongside her daughter Holly, she adopted the name Margo Smith and Holly, and they became a successful Christian country duo, earning awards for their music.
Smith relocated to Florida during the later stages of her life, where she dedicated herself to the art of yodeling. She found financial stability by imparting her yodeling skills to others, with notable success seen in her most renowned student, Taylor Ware, who was the runner-up on America's Got Talent in 2006. Eventually, Smith would make her way back to Nashville, only to pass away on January 23rd 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.
The family is requesting that instead of sending flowers, they would appreciate a donation to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In memory of the 40 country singers and songwriters who passed away at a young age, we pay our respects. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy Dukes.
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