Las Vegas, NV — LaMonte McLemore, the celebrated singer, songwriter, photographer, and founding member of the legendary vocal group The 5th Dimension, has died at the age of 90.
McLemore passed away Tuesday at his home in Las Vegas, surrounded by family, according to his representative Jeremy Westby. He died of natural causes following complications from a stroke he suffered several years ago.
Best known for helping shape the smooth, genre-blending sound of The 5th Dimension, McLemore played a vital role in creating some of the most enduring hits of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The group’s uplifting blend of pop, soul, R&B, and psychedelia earned them massive crossover success and widespread acclaim.
A Career of Timeless Hits and Grammy Glory
The 5th Dimension won six Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year twice — for 1967’s “Up, Up and Away” and 1969’s “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.” Both songs became Top 10 pop hits, with “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” a mashup from the musical Hair, spending six weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
McLemore also contributed creatively behind the scenes, co-writing two songs recorded by the group: “A Love Like Ours” (with Bob Alcivar) and “The Singer” (with Elliot Willensky).
Formed in 1965, The 5th Dimension consisted of McLemore, Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Billy Davis Jr., and Ron Townson. Their original lineup received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1991, and McLemore remained with the group until 2006.
Trailblazer in Sports and Photography
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, McLemore was a multi-talented pioneer long before achieving fame in music. He served in the U.S. Navy as an aerial photographer, a role that helped launch his lifelong passion for photography.
He also made history as the first African American athlete to try out for the St. Louis Cardinals. After relocating to Los Angeles, McLemore briefly played as a minor league strong-arm pitcher with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.
Beyond the stage, McLemore became a prolific and influential photographer, documenting Black culture, musicians, athletes, and celebrities for more than 40 years. His work appeared in major publications such as Jet and Playboy, earning him respect as a visual storyteller as well as a performer.
A Lasting Legacy
McLemore’s impact spans music, sports, photography, and cultural history. He is remembered as a gifted artist, innovator, and trailblazer whose contributions helped open doors for generations to come.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mieko McLemore; daughter Ciara; son Darin; sister Joan; and three grandchildren.
May LaMonte McLemore rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to shine through the music, images, and inspiration he leaves behind.
