Celebrating our 18th Year! A TRIBUTE TO THE MULTI-GRAMMY WINNING LEGENDARY STARS of THE ORIGINAL 5TH DIMENSION, Curated by Biographer, Robert-Allan Arno ~~ History & Current Events, Exclusive Quotes & Interviews, Rare Photo Collection! Recommended by McCoo/Davis, LaRue & Remembering LaMonte McLemore
June 2, 2026: According to our good friend at Soultracks, editor Chris Rizik: “He possessed the purest of voices. A rich baritone that showed a unique versatility but found its sweetest spots on soulful love songs. Tonight we are devasted to report that the legendary balladeer Peabo Bryson has passed away just days after suffering a stroke.”
Forever 5th Dimension notes that Mr. Bryson was a friend and colleague of Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. and Florence LaRue. Marilyn & Billy performed with Peabo (along with Ruben Studdard and Jody Watley) on the Colors of Christmas Tour 2017, pictured above. Florence and The 5th Dimension recently performed with Peabo at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts in November 2022, as part of the Home for the Holidays Concert, also featuring Oleta Adams and Taylor Dane (see below).
Soultracks continues about his mega-hits in their tribute: “Peabo blew the roof off of 1983 on a duet album with Roberta Flack, the adult contemporary Tonight I Celebrate My Love, yielding four hits. This AC success continued with his next album, Straight From the Heart, a crossover smash that included the number one pop song of the year, Michael Masser’s ‘If Ever You’re In My Arms Again.’ In 1991 he released the single ‘Can You Stop the Rain,’ one of the most compelling songs of his career. He then hit the top of the pop charts twice on themes from two consecutive Disney animated classics, ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with Celine Dion and ‘A Whole New World’ (from Aladdin), with Regina Belle.”
2026 had been a year of celebration for Bryson, with his “Golden Touch” tour, commemorating 50 years in music.With his crystalline passionate sound, Mr. Bryson was known by Ms. Mcoo & Mr. Davis, and Ms. LaRue not only for his dexterously versatile, immense talent but for his easy-going, down-to-earth demeanor. Forever 5th Dimension extends sincere condolences to his millions of worldwide fans, musical colleagues and his loving family.
In the 18 years the Forever 5th Dimension blog has continued, so beautifully supported by our shining stars, Marilyn & Billy, Florence and our beloved LaMonte, plus their families and respective management, not to mention the thousands of worldwide special fans who come to visit here each year, we’ve never taken this long a time-out. It’s been a couple of months since LaMonte’s Celebration of Life (he passed away on February 3) and as his biographer and that of The Original 5th Dimension, I sincerely confess to needing some time for personal prayer and meditation.
LaMonte’s Celebration of Life was a private affair, and as such, it takes discernment to decide what is appropriate to share in the most respectfully uplifting way. When we were writing his memoir, a seemingly brief book, “From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension: A Life Fulfilled in Baseball, Photography and Music,” we joked that we not only chose small print but trusted that the pages were chock full of a life of achievement from humble beginnings to appearing on the world stages. As much of a raconteur as LaMonte was, and a premier jokester, his main goal was to be inspirational. And all those elements were front and center at the Celebration of Life held on a Sunday in late February in a scenic Las Vegas Country Club setting with over 200 attending.
Our MC was the charming Bubba Knight of Gladys Knight and the Pips. Because LaMonte’s best pal, Harry Elston of The Friends of Distinction had also left us a while earlier, LaMonte’s dedicated wife, Mieko found the right man for the job who was also a star crony of LaMonte’s. Billy Davis, Jr., in his gentle pastoral manner, blessed the proceedings in prayer as one of LaMonte’s favorite recordings by The 5th Dimension, Billy’s solo of “A Change is Gonna Come,” played after. Florence LaRue then stepped forward to sing a live version of “Healing Hands.” You could hear the proverbial pin drop as she emoted so tenderly and emotionally. Marilyn McCoo came to the podium to give an expansive, thoughtful dissertation on LaMonte’s muti-faceted trajectory which highlighted the genuine love the members of The Original 5th Dimension had for one another, sharing, “And at every rehearsal at Mac’s home, delicious food was cooking on the stove.” She moved us with, “He stood elegantly in the background while many of us stepped forward for our solos, but today, it’s LaMonte who’s in the lead.” She went on to talk about the massive media outpouring for LaMonte. Indeed, it was my honor as his biographer along with 5th Dimension legacy manager, Susan Muneo to orchestrate coverage in myriad publications including extensive articles in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Ebony magazine, the Grio, Billboard, the St. Louis Post Dispatch, AP Wire Service, and so many more. There was also compelling coverage on CBS News Sunday Morning and ABC’s Good Morning America. It was a lovely and unexpected moment when Marilyn noted my contributions to LaMonte’s and The 5th Dimension’s legacy, before Bubba called me up to such a warm reception.
LaMonte always schooled me on the secret of giving a good speech. And I’ll share it with you as it helped me prepare my presentation. He taught: “Have a beginning, middle and end, don’t be afraid of using humor, be inspiring but don’t preach, and then get the heck off the stage!” So, before I unveiled LaMonte’s official Celebration of Life 6-minute bio film which I was asked to produce and announce for the event, I acknowledged the millions of worldwide fans of The 5th Dimension and gave a shout-out to some in attendance, Andy, Martha, Loretta and Deniserose. Then I talked about LaMonte’s uncanny ability to see the heart of every person he encountered. And to intrinsically know their gift, to encourage them to fuel it with passion, and that would become their offering to the world. Many including Florence laughed in acknowledgement when I added, “Truly, Mac would not take no for an answer!” in this self-actualizing regard. In fact, I reached out to the crowd for an informal survey, and surely LaMonte had this effect on the majority of attendees, conveyed with knowing “Amens” and applause. And then it was my great pleasure to “say their names,” as I continued, “He did it for the incomparable Billy Davis, Jr., the beautiful Marilyn McCoo, the radiant and lovely Florence LaRue…and let’s not forget the beloved Ron ‘Sweets’ Townson.” More applause. And how nice that Ron’s son Kyle could join us. I also noted that each and every Christmastime, no matter if we were ensconced in a project, LaMonte and Mieko would send a festive gift and a card cutely containing both their handwritten notes. Mac always punctuated his using block print, YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHING YET! about the coming new year. I concluded, “So think about it, if LaMonte could orchestrate so much for each of us on earth, now as an angel from heaven above…well, as he would say, WE AIN’T SEEN NOTHIN’ YET!”
Here’s “The Story of LaMonte McLemore” video that followed. At its conclusion, we all put our hands together for Mac as we sang with faithful joy, “Let the Sunshine In”:
Then LaMonte’s cherished wife, Mieko (pictured left) presented a poignant personal slide show of memories, and his daughter Ciara (pictured right), son Darin, sister Joan, grandson Shane (“L’il Mac”), nephew Donny, niece Melanie, and luminaries like Tony Orlando, Jayne Kennedy, comedian George Wallace, and manager Jason Winters shared heartfelt stories.
Pictured l to r: Florence LaRue, Tony Orlando, Marilyn McCoo, Billy Davis, Jr., Susan Muneo, back: Robert-Allan Arno
On this Memorial Day weekend, we remember LaMonte by, as the song says, “going where he’d want us to go”—to look forward to wondrous new adventures, both personal and 5th Dimension-related. We love you forever, Mac! –Robert-Allan Arno
America to Africa Higher Education Foundation Mr. McLemore proudly served on the Board of Directors of AAHEF, supporting educational scholarships for deserving Nigerian college students. Donations in his memory may be made at the Foundation’s website.
Last night, our Marilyn & Billy had a delightful, audience-packed concert at the McCallum Theater in Palm Desert. They certainly performed this medley we celebrate today. Our friends at the Wrecking Crew remind:
On this date, April 12, 1969, the single “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In (The Flesh Failures)” by The5th Dimension hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 where it stayed for 6 consecutive weeks. The songs, from the rock musical HAIR, were written by James Rado. Gerome Ragni and Galt Mac Dermot. The medley was produced by Bones Howe, and arranged by Bill Holman, Bob Alcivar, and Howe.
The single was released in March of 1969 on Soul City Records.
The recording won both the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Group for the Grammy Awards of 1970.
The instrumental tracks were recorded at Wally Heider‘s Studio 3 in Hollywood by Wrecking Crew members Hal Blaine on drums, Joe Osborn on bass, Larry Knechtel on keyboards, Tommy Tedesco and Dennis Budimir on guitars, and Tony Terran on trumpet. The vocals were recorded in Las Vegas where the group was performing.
Our beloved LaMonte McLemore wrote in his memoir, “From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension,” “Our voices were tired from performing onstage and we had to stop the recording when the train right outside the studio came through…but you’d never know it! It turned out to be our biggest hit!”
Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-2026, all rights reserved.
#5thHistory On April 1, 1970, the seminal PORTRAIT album was released, The 5th Dimension‘s first for Bell records, after their association with Soul City. Marilyn calls it “The 5th Dimension’s version of a protest album” with songs like “Save the Country,” and the Independence Medley: “The Declaration”/”A Change is Gonna Come”/”People Gotta Be Free.” It was also the home of “One Less Bell to Answer,” “Puppet Man,” “This is Your Life,” “A Love Like Ours,” and “Dimension 5ive.” With songwriters like Laura Nyro, Bacharach/David, Jimmy Webb, Felix Cavaliere…and we remember those we just lost, Neil Sedaka and the group’s beloved LaMonte McLemore.
On this April 1st in 2026, the echoes of PORTRAIT remain important in 5th Dimension history, and in timelessly meaningful musical history. Experience PORTRAIT in new ways…with exciting news coming from FOREVER 5th DIMENSION, soon. —Robert-Allan Arno
More PORTRAIT Information from our friends at the Wrecking Crew:
The album went on to peak at #20 on the Billboard 200. The single release from the album “One Less Bell To Answer” peaked at #2.
Track listing:
Side one
“Puppet Man” (Howard Greenfield, Neil Sedaka) – 3:00
“One Less Bell to Answer” (Burt Bacharach, Hal David) – 3:31
“Feelin’ Alright?” (Dave Mason) – 4:28
“This Is Your Life” (Jimmy Webb) – 4:13
“A Love Like Ours” (Bob Alcivar, Lamonte McLemore) – 2:39
Side two:
“Save the Country” (Laura Nyro) – 2:39
“The Independence Medley” – 10:12: “The Declaration” (Julius Johnsen, René DeKnight) from the play “Bread, Beans & Things”/”A Change Is Gonna Come” (Sam Cooke)/”People Gotta Be Free” (Eddie Brigati, Felix Cavaliere)
“Dimension 5ive” (Bob Alcivar) – 4:15
Forever 5th Dimension by Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-26, intellectual property, all rights reserved
Our First Couple of Pop & Soul, the legendary Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. are thrilled to be performing for their dedicated fans at one of their favorite venues, the McCallum Theater in Palm Desert, Ca. Here’s the details for this Saturday, April 11 highly anticipated event, tickets going fast!
Dateline March 18: Happy 93rd Birthday to the “man with the golden ears,” Grammy winning producer Bones Howe. Saluting a gentleman, a genius, and a mentor, whose vast musical contribution lives forever!
Read this FOREVER 5th DIMENSION tribute to Mr. Bones with exclusive quotes about his work from Marilyn, Florence, Billy and our beloved LaMonte, at this link:
Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, all photos and commentary copyright 2026, intellectual property, all rights reserved. A Production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd.
Another sad moment in the music world with the passing of acclaimed singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka. Known for multi-generational hits from early confections like “Sweet Sixteen” and “Calendar Girl” to 1970s staples such as “Laughter in the Rain” and the reimagined ballad classic, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” Neil was also a prolific hitmaker for others — penning songs for Connie Francis (“Where the Boys Are”), Captain & Tennille (“Love Will Keep Us Together”), and, of course, The 5th Dimension: “Puppet Man” and “Working on a Groovy Thing.”
Neil was among the most generous of artists — always gracious when I requested a quote for liner notes, books, or onstage tributes. A flood of FOREVER 5th DIMENSION memories comes to mind.
For my ULTIMATE 5th DIMENSION liner notes, Neil recounted, “I literally fell off the couch while watching The 5th Dimension on The Ed Sullivan Show… I couldn’t believe they chose ‘Groovy Thing’ as their follow-up single to ‘Aquarius!’” He stated, “I was truly a fan of The 5th Dimension.” Notice his joy in the photo above, trading songs with the group on The Mike Douglas Show, Neil at the piano with (left to right): comedian David Steinberg, actor Alan Alda, Florence, Marilyn, Ron, LaMonte, and Billy. Regarding “Puppet Man,” for PLAYLIST: THE VERY BEST OF THE 5th DIMENSION, he confided to me, “They did my song justice,” before adding with a smile, “I preferred their version to Tom Jones’s — although he also did a good job.”
Neil once surprised Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. at their Friars Roast, appearing as an unlisted guest to perform “Working on a Groovy Thing.” “How could I not be here for this lovely, talented couple?” he told us — moving Marilyn to tears. He later shared with me, “Marilyn is what I call the ‘singer’s singer.’ I always love when I get a chance to perform with her.” Indeed, their emotionally sparkling duet of “The Hungry Years” on SOLID GOLD remains unforgettable. (Let’s hope it appears back on YouTube again.)
Neil enthusiastically contributed a back cover recommendation as well as anecdotes when I co-wrote LaMonte McLemore’s memoir, From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension. He also offered a special congratulatory greeting that I was honored to read from the Las Vegas stage at LaMonte’s book signing and chat show, 11 years ago.
And now these two gentlemen reunite in heaven, harmonizing hits and surely making new music to shine upon a world more in need of their sunshine and laughter (even in the rain) than ever.
Forever 5th Dimension by Arno, a Production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd, copyright 2008-26, intellectual property, all rights reserved. Photos: Arno 5th Legacy Collection
The Story of LaMonte McLemore: 6-time Grammy award winner, the founder and bass of legendary singing group The 5th Dimension, renowned photographer, author, humanitarian. We invite friends, global fans, and family to experience his official Celebration of Life tribute film, as featured at the private event held in Las Vegas, on February 22, 2026.
Produced by The Soul of The Voice, Ltd. Narrated by his biographer Robert-Allan Arno, exclusive photos: Arno 5th Legacy Collection, Mieko McLemore Collection, all rights reserved
Those wishing to honor LaMonte’s legacy may consider a donation in his name to the America to Africa Higher Education Foundation (AAHEF) — where he served as a member of the Board of Directors — reflecting his enduring commitment to education and global unity:
The Celebration of Life for LaMonte McLemore will be a private gathering.
Those wishing to honor LaMonte’s legacy may consider a donation in his name to the America to Africa Higher Education Foundation (AAHEF) — where he served as a member of the Board of Directors — reflecting his enduring commitment to education and global unity: www.americatoafricahighereducationfoundation.com
(The Official Celebration of Life video, titled “The Story of LaMonte McLemore” will be shared here at FOREVER 5th DIMENSION, next week.)
My appreciation, Marilyn & Billy for sharing exclusively with FOREVER 5th DIMENSION, your homage to LaMonte that is equal parts heartfelt, historic and charming… —Robert-Allan Arno
In 1965, five young African American singers came together to form an obscure vocal group. We called ourselves The Versatiles. Once we created our sound, the people around us were convinced the name was too square, too vanilla. Ron Townson, along with his wife Bobette, suggested a new name: The 5th Dimension.
And The Original 5th Dimension, we became. The unknown story behind the gold records, the platinum records, the Grammys, the television specials and shows, amazing fans at the thousands of concerts—the laughter and tears is best seen through the photographic lens of the man who brought us all together: LaMonte McLemore, who left this life on Tuesday, February 3rd.
Ron, LaMonte, and Billy all knew each other from St. Louis. Florence was from Pennsylvania, and Marilyn grew up in California. We all had solo dreams. Somehow, with LaMonte’s incredible heart, charm, goodness, and humility, he convinced us to put those dreams on hold for ten years—a full decade—and make beautiful music together.
Every time you hear a 5th Dimension harmony, every time you hear an Original 5th Dimension melody, pause and give thanks for our beloved friend. Without his grace, the egos of everyone else might have kept that dream from ever coming true.
Our hearts are broken. We love LaMonte and his wonderful wife, Mieko, so deeply. They are both rare and truly good human beings.
LaMonte would be the first to tell you he may not have been our group’s strongest lead singer—many have said that honor belongs to Billy—but he was a genius of strength in art, creativity, energy, friendship, kindness, and love.
Many years ago, we recorded a song that feels prophetic today as we lift LaMonte to God, with Whom we know he will be for eternity. The song is called “It’ll Never Be the Same Again.” That is the truth—and it hurts deeply because it is so true.
Thank you, LaMonte, for the miracle of The 5h Dimension and for the music that will live on forever. You gave us a priceless gift: making music, history, and memories that will never fade.
We love you. God bless you and your beautiful family, always.
FOREVER 5TH DIMENSION 
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