Founding 5th Dimension Member LaMonte McLemore Dies at 90

The soul-pop icon and pioneering photographer helped define an era of unity and uplifting sound.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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LaMonte McLemore, a founding member of the iconic 1960s group The 5th Dimension, has died at the age of 90. McLemore, known for his smooth tenor voice and joyful energy, passed away from natural causes on February 3, 2026, at his home in Las Vegas. He co-founded The 5th Dimension, which earned six Grammy Awards and multiple platinum records with their blend of pop, soul, R&B, and psychedelic touches. Beyond music, McLemore was also a groundbreaking photographer whose work celebrated Black culture and excellence.

Why it matters

LaMonte McLemore's life and career embodied the power of artistry to bring people together and inspire change. As a musician, he helped define an era of unity and uplifting sound. As a photographer, he captured pivotal moments in Black history and gave greater visibility to Black excellence. His contributions continue to resonate with fans and creatives across generations.

The details

Born in St. Louis in 1935, McLemore co-founded The 5th Dimension in the 1960s alongside Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Billy Davis Jr., and Ron Townson. The group's soaring harmonies and genre-blending sound created a fresh musical style, earning them six Grammy Awards and multiple platinum records. Hits like 'Up, Up and Away' and 'Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In' topped the charts and became enduring classics. Beyond the stage, McLemore was also a pioneering photographer whose work appeared in publications like Jet and Ebony, capturing stars, athletes, and cultural figures during pivotal moments in Black history.

  • LaMonte McLemore passed away on February 3, 2026.
  • The 5th Dimension rose to fame in the 1960s.

The players

LaMonte McLemore

A founding member of the iconic 1960s group The 5th Dimension, known for his smooth tenor voice and joyful energy. He was also a groundbreaking photographer who captured pivotal moments in Black history.

The 5th Dimension

A popular 1960s musical group known for their soaring harmonies and genre-blending sound, which earned them six Grammy Awards and multiple platinum records.

Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Billy Davis Jr., and Ron Townson

The other founding members of The 5th Dimension, who performed alongside LaMonte McLemore.

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The takeaway

LaMonte McLemore's life and work embodied the power of artistry to bring people together and inspire change. As a musician, he helped define an era of unity and uplifting sound. As a photographer, he captured pivotal moments in Black history and gave greater visibility to Black excellence. His contributions continue to resonate with fans and creatives across generations, serving as a blueprint for how to live with passion and purpose.