LaMonte McLemore, a foundational member and co-founder of the iconic Grammy-winning vocal group The 5th Dimension, has passed away at the age of 90. McLemore died of natural causes on Tuesday at his residence in Las Vegas, several years after experiencing a stroke. His distinctive bass vocals were a crucial element in many of the group’s enduring hits, cementing their place in music history.
A Legacy of Harmony and Crossover Success
McLemore’s passing marks the end of an era for a group that masterfully blended R&B, soul, and pop, achieving widespread acclaim and commercial success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The 5th Dimension, formed in Los Angeles, originally comprised McLemore, Billy Davis Jr., Florence LaRue, Marilyn McCoo, and Ron Townson, who preceded McLemore in death in 2001. Their signature sound, characterized by smooth harmonies and sophisticated arrangements, resonated with audiences across diverse demographics, making them a significant crossover act of their time.
The group’s discography boasts a string of unforgettable songs that continue to be celebrated. Among their most significant hits are "Up, Up and Away," "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In (The Flesh Failures)," "Wedding Bell Blues," "Stoned Soul Picnic," and "One Less Bell to Answer." These tracks not only dominated the charts but also earned critical accolades, solidifying The 5th Dimension’s status as one of the era’s premier musical ensembles.
Reflections on a Cherished Bandmate
Florence LaRue, the group’s lead soprano and a longtime bandmate of McLemore, shared a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on his profound impact on her life and the group. "Proverbs 17:22 states that ‘one joyful heart is good medicine…’ Well, Lamonte really knew my prescription," LaRue stated in a press release. "His cheerfulness and laughter often brought strength and refreshment to me in difficult times. We were more like brother and sister than singing partners. I didn’t realize the depth of my love for Lamonte until he was no longer here. His absence has shown me the magnitude of what he meant to me and that love will stay in my heart forever."
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., also integral members of The 5th Dimension, issued a joint statement expressing their sorrow and fond memories of McLemore. "All of us who knew and loved him will definitely miss his energy and wonderful sense of humor," they remarked, echoing the sentiments of many who were touched by McLemore’s vibrant personality.
A Multifaceted Life Beyond Music
Born on September 17, 1935, in St. Louis, Missouri, LaMonte McLemore’s life was marked by a remarkable range of talents and pursuits. After serving in the Navy, where he honed his skills as an aerial photographer, McLemore embarked on a dual career path. He not only became a prominent figure in the music industry but also established himself as a respected entertainment and sports photographer for publications such as Jet magazine.
Prior to his musical and photographic endeavors, McLemore harbored aspirations of a career in professional baseball. He was part of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ farm system, showcasing his athletic prowess before shifting his focus to the arts. This diverse background undoubtedly contributed to his unique perspective and the rich tapestry of his life experiences.
McLemore also ventured into authorship, co-penning the 2014 autobiography From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension: A Life Fulfilled in Baseball, Photography, and Music with Robert-Allan Arno. This memoir offered readers an intimate glimpse into his extraordinary journey, from his early life to his celebrated career in music and photography.
Chart-Topping Success and Lasting Recognition
The 5th Dimension, with McLemore as a key vocalist and visionary, achieved unprecedented success throughout their career. The group garnered two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year: one for the upbeat "Up, Up and Away" and another for the psychedelic-infused "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In (The Flesh Failures)." The latter, a monumental hit, spent six weeks at the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming a defining anthem of the era.
Both "Up, Up and Away" and "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In" were subsequently inducted into the prestigious Grammy Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring cultural significance. The group’s commercial achievements also include earning seven gold albums and six RIAA-certified platinum singles, underscoring their widespread appeal and consistent popularity.
Beyond their chart success, The 5th Dimension played a role in cultural diplomacy. In 1973, they embarked on a State Department cultural tour, bringing American music to audiences behind the Iron Curtain, a significant undertaking during the Cold War era. Their lasting legacy was further recognized in 1991 with the bestowal of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a permanent mark of their contributions to the entertainment industry.
Renewed Spotlight and Cultural Resonance
In recent years, The 5th Dimension experienced a resurgence of public interest, partly due to their inclusion in Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson’s critically acclaimed 2021 documentary, Summer of Soul (â¦Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised). The film chronicled the legendary 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a pivotal event where The 5th Dimension, alongside other influential artists like Sly & the Family Stone, Nina Simone, and Stevie Wonder, delivered memorable performances. This documentary brought the group’s historic contributions to a new generation of music lovers and cemented their place in the annals of Black music history.
A Family Man and a Musical Pioneer
LaMonte McLemore’s personal life was also a source of joy and fulfillment. He passed away surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mieko McLemore; his daughter, Ciara; his adopted son, Darin; his sister, Joan; and three grandchildren. A memorial service and celebration of his life will be announced at a later date, allowing friends, family, and fans to honor his memory and celebrate his remarkable life. McLemore’s enduring influence on music, photography, and culture ensures his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
