Fans of classic pop music are mourning the loss of LaMonte McLemore, a founding member of The 5th Dimension. In addition to being a legendary pop and soul musician, McLemore was a notable sports and celebrity photographer, with his work appearing in publications such as Harper’s Bazaar and Jet. He was 90.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, McLemore passed away on February 3 at this home in Las Vegas. Per the report, the beloved musician and photographer died of natural causes. Regarding his health, McLemore’s death came after he suffered a stroke in recent years.
GettyLaMonte McLemore Leaves Behind a Massive Legacy
According to The Hollywood Reporter, McLemore got his start with The 5th Dimension in the 1960s. In additon to him, the pop and soul group included Florence LaRue, Ron Townson, Billy Davis Jr., and Marilyn McCoo.
Some of the group’s biggest hits include “Up, Up and Away” and “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.” Both songs won The Fifth Dimension the Grammy for Record of the Year, first in 1968 and then again in 1970.
It’s also worth noting that “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” remained number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks in a row. Some of the group’s other big hits include “Wedding Bell Blues,” “Go Where You Wanna Go,” “One Less Bell To Answer,” and “(Last Night) I Didn’t Get to Sleep at All.”
According to the group’s official website, they sold over 25 million records throughout their legendary career.
LaRue, who still tours with The 5th Dimension, released a statement following his passing. She said, “Proverbs 17:22 states that ‘A joyful heart is good medicine … ’ Well, LaMonte really knew my prescription! His cheerfulness and laughter often brought strength and refreshment to me in difficult times. We were more like brother and sister than singing partners.”
She continued, “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.”
Tributes Are Pouring In For His Legacy
McLemore and his work with The 5th Dimension changed the landscape of pop and soul music in the 1960s and 70s. Because of the impact he made, many are taking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy, in additon to the heartfelt statement from LaRue.
One person said on X, “R.I.P. to LaMonte McLemore. He was one of the founding members of The Fifth Dimension. McLemore died yesterday at the age of 90. Among the group’s hits: “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In,” “Up, Up and Away,” and “Wedding Bell Blues.”
Another fan said, “Sad news. LaMonte McLemore and The 5th Dimension gave us timeless hits that will never be forgotten.” Someone else wrote, “LaMonte McLemore, founding member of The 5th Dimension and Grammy-winning voice behind ‘Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In,’ has died aged 90. His impact on music and photography will resonate for generations.”
McLemore leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. He will be missed!
Always loved the group they were fantastic singing group
This has really made me so sad ! The 5th dimension were so fabulous and so much class. I’m a white woman, when I was a child my parents taught me and my sister that there was no difference between white and black folks. I would always tell my mom that if she ever had to go away with out me could she please see if Ms. Magoo would be my new mom. The 5th dimension was one of the best groups ever. This is so sad❣️❣️❣️