Remembering LaMonte McLemore: The Soulful Voice of The 5th Dimension

A Tribute to a Musical Legend

LaMonte McLemore, a founding member of the iconic vocal group The 5th Dimension, died peacefully at home in Las Vegas at the age of 90, leaving behind a rich legacy defined by soulful melodies and groundbreaking crossover success. This vibrant artist, whose career not only reverberated through the music of the 60s and 70s but also spanned realms of photography and culture, has left us with memories rich in creativity and warmth.

The Rise of The 5th Dimension

McLemore's journey in music started in St. Louis and twisted through various career avenues—most notably sports and photography—before he found his calling in music. Alongside fellow members like Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., he formed The 5th Dimension, which would become a household name with their distinct blend of pop, soul, and a whimsical sprinkle of psychedelia. The group's breakthrough hit, “Go Where You Wanna Go,” encapsulated their unique sound that existed at the intersection of multiple genres.

Grammy Glory

Their hits, such as “Up, Up and Away” and the timeless “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” propelled them into Grammy-winning superstardom, accumulating six Grammys in total, including record of the year for both aforementioned tracks. Their music resonated broadly, transcending racial and cultural boundaries during a time when such a fusion was both revolutionary and controversial.

“We were constantly being attacked because we weren't, quote, unquote, 'Black enough,'” McCoo once revealed. “Sometimes we were called the Black group with the white sound, and we didn't like that. We happened to be artists who are Black, and our voices sound the way they sound.”

A Multifaceted Artist

LaMonte's talents didn't stop at singing. With a keen eye for detail, he also carved out a parallel career as a photographer, capturing moments of celebrities and sports figures. His work appeared in notable publications, including Jet magazine, showcasing his skill behind the camera.

The Cultural Impact of The 5th Dimension

The 5th Dimension played pivotal roles in events such as the Harlem Cultural Festival—dubbed the “Black Woodstock”—which highlighted the efforts of Black artists during a time of significant social change. Their participation in it, as chronicled in the documentary Summer of Soul, reflects how their music not only entertained but also served as a voice for cultural expression and unity.

Life Beyond the Stage

While The 5th Dimension enjoyed success, each member also navigated personal relationships and growth. McLemore's bond with McCoo was particularly strong; they understood the complexities of fame intertwined with personal struggle. After going their separate ways in 1975, their fond memories remained. McCoo shared, “All of us who knew and loved him will definitely miss his energy and wonderful sense of humor.” McLemore is survived by his wife, Mieko, his children, and grandchildren.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

As we reflect on the life of LaMonte McLemore, his infectious joy and artistry continue to inspire. Whether you encountered his music in the mellow ambiance of a jazz cafe or caught glimpses of his vivid photographs, McLemore's work has touched many. His legacy is not merely of Grammy accolades but of a life lived fully, intertwining art and culture, breaking barriers, and capturing the essence of a vibrant era in music.

Further Reading

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• Negro Leagues player, Detroit native Ron Teasley dies at age 99
• 90-year-old pedestrian in Millbrae dies after getting hit by vehicle
• Atlanta's Renaissance Orchestra fuses hip-hop and classical music