Jody Miller, a successful singer-songwriter who began her career singing folk and pop music before transitioning into country, died at 80, according to a statement from her publicity company.
She died from problems associated with Parkinson’s Disease.
Born Myrna Joy Miller on Nov. 29, 1941, to parents who would later divorce, the singer spent her early childhood years in California before moving at age eight to live with her grandparents in Blanchard, Okla. According to the Oklahoman newspaper report, she demonstrated musical talent and ability even as a young child and would sing harmonies with her siblings.
In 1962, Miller signed with Capitol Records as a folk artist. Glen Campbell, a session player at the time, worked on her studio music. “He Walks Like a Man” also made it onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart and she toured with the Beach Boys.
In 1965, the singer’s big break arrived with the release of “Queen of the House.” The song became successful on both the pop and country charts, which led to her winning Best Country & Western Performance — Female at Grammy Awards in 1966. In addition, she was nominated for Best New Country & Western Artist at that awards show. Soon after, she released more chart-topping singles like “Long Black Limousine,” “Baby I’m Yours” and “He’s So Fine” that blended different genres together seamlessly.
Even though Miller stepped back from her musical career in the 80s to allow her daughter, Robin, time to focus on school in Oklahoma, she never lost interest in music. In 1987, she released an album of patriotic songs that was well-received by then president George H.W Bush. As a result, he invited her to sing at his inauguration ceremony.
In 1999, after becoming a born-again Christian in the ’90s and releasing several gospel albums, Miller was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame. Following the death of her husband Monty Brooks, she continued to tour – including secular hits and gospel songs. Along with her daughter and grandchildren, Miller also formed a trio named Jody Miller and Three Generations.
Miller passed away in Blanchard, Okla., in early morning of Oct. 6. No funeral details have been publicized as of yet.
