The music world mourns the loss of LaMonte McLemore, a legendary singer and photographer who passed away at the age of 90. McLemore was a founding member of the iconic vocal group, The 5th Dimension, whose harmonious blend of pop, soul, and psychedelia left an indelible mark on the 1960s and 70s music scene. Born in St. Louis, McLemore's journey began in the US Navy, where his talent for aerial photography and baseball shone through. He later found his calling in music, joining a jazz ensemble called The Hi-Fi's, which opened for the legendary Ray Charles in 1963. But it was his collaboration with childhood friends Billy Davis Jr., Ronald Towson, and teacher Florence LaRue that led to the formation of The 5th Dimension. The group's name, suggested by Towson, perfectly captured their unique sound, blending psychedelia and hippy culture. Their breakthrough hit, 'Go Where You Wanna Go,' followed by the chart-topping 'Up, Up and Away,' solidified their place in music history. The latter earned them four Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Contemporary Single. McLemore's talent extended beyond music; he was also a skilled photographer, with his work appearing in magazines like Jet. He is survived by his loving family, including his wife, Mieko McLemore, and children, Ciara and Darin, as well as his sister, Joan, and three grandchildren. The 5th Dimension's legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of music and the enduring impact of those who dedicated their lives to it.
