LaMonte McLemore, a founding member of The 5th Dimension and a celebrated photographer, has passed away at the age of 90. His legacy extends beyond music, as he left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry through his lens. Born in St. Louis, McLemore's journey began with a military background as an aerial photographer in the U.S. Navy. He later transitioned into professional baseball, pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers' farm system. However, his true passion lay in music and photography, which led him to co-found The Versatiles, later renamed The 5th Dimension. This group achieved immense success with hits like "Up, Up and Away" and "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In," earning them Grammy awards and chart-topping positions. McLemore's warm bass vocals and easygoing presence were integral to the group's polished sound. Outside of music, he built a distinguished career as a photographer, capturing iconic figures of the 20th century for magazines like Jet, Ebony, and Playboy. His work in entertainment, sports, and editorial portraiture is a testament to his artistic prowess. McLemore's impact on the industry is further highlighted by his contributions to the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, featured in the Oscar-winning documentary 'Summer of Soul.' His autobiography, co-authored with Robert-Allan Arno, offers a glimpse into his diverse life experiences. McLemore's passing leaves a void in the music and photography worlds, but his legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations.
