LaMonte McLemore, the legendary singer and founding member of the iconic 5th Dimension, passed away at the age of 90. His smooth vocals and soulful melodies, infused with a touch of psychedelia, captivated audiences and earned him a place in music history. McLemore's journey began in St. Louis, where he served in the US Navy as an aerial photographer. His talent extended beyond the camera, as he also played baseball in the Los Angeles Dodgers' farm system. But it was his voice that truly made him shine. McLemore sang in a jazz ensemble called the Hi-Fi's with future 5th Dimension bandmate Marilyn McCoo. They opened for Ray Charles in 1963, but the group disbanded the following year. However, their paths would cross again. In 1965, McLemore, McCoo, and two childhood friends from St. Louis, Billy Davis Jr. and Ronald Towson, along with schoolteacher Florence LaRue, formed the Versatiles. They signed with singer Johnny Rivers' Soul City Records, but Rivers suggested a name change. Towson proposed 'The 5th Dimension,' reflecting the group's embrace of psychedelia and hippy culture. Their big break came in 1967 with the Mamas & the Papas' song 'Go Where You Wanna Go.' That same year, they released 'Up, Up and Away,' a Jimmy Webb masterpiece that reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. This song won four Grammys, solidifying their place in music history. McLemore's legacy extends beyond music. He was also a talented sports and celebrity photographer, with his pictures appearing in magazines like Jet. McLemore is survived by his loving wife, Mieko McLemore, their children Ciara and Darin, his sister Joan, and three grandchildren. His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in music history, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
