MERRY 5th-MAS!

I once asked mega producer of The 5th Dimension, Bones Howe, why the original quintet never recorded a holiday tune or better yet, a Christmas album and his response was practical.  “Robert, it never dawned on me.  The group was on the road so much, touring, that my time in the studio with them was limited.  Don’t get me wrong, recording was first priority for The 5th, but my goal was to keep getting us hits.”

And so, FOREVER 5th DIMENSION brings you some “later day” holiday treats from Santa’s Champagne Soul goody bag, from Marilyn & Billy…Florence…and special new year news from LaMonte…

“Merry 5th-mas!”  from The 5th Dimension Family,
Robert-Allan Arno
Biographer–The original 5th Dimension,   LaMonte McLemore

MARBILL’S JINGLE BELLS:  Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. are embarking on their select “Solid Gold Christmas” tour and have lotsa’ concerts already set for the new year!  Check out more at their official Facebook page or at www.mccoodavis.com  Here’s the duo’s jazzy version of “Jingle Bells.”  “We had so much fun arranging this together at the piano,” Marilyn shared with a smile.  Billy added, “Robert, we think we got it just right!”  In this FOREVER 5th DIMENSION production, I tagged the “jazzy bells” with a snippet of The original 5th emoting “Joy to the World”…the Three Dog Night version!

FLORENCE’S “GROWN-UP CHRISTMAS LIST:” In the 90’s, Florence LaRue recorded a limited edition CD single of this modern favorite. It’s been out of print for quite a while (we’ve featured a “live” performance of it, previously), but now a fan has kindly put the recording of “My Grown-up Christmas List” on YouTube. Enjoy this heartwarming interpretation that’s pure LaRue.  And remember, Florence and The current 5th Dimension perform to sold-out crowds all year long.  Visit www.thefifthdimension.org to check the latest touring schedule of Florence with Patrice, Willie, Leonard and Floyd!

MARILYN & DONNA:  During her “Solid Gold” hosting days, on this special Christmas edition, Marilyn was joined by her good friend, Donna Summer for an unforgettable duet of “O Come All Ye Faithful.”  Marilyn and Billy stated to FOREVER 5th, in unison, “We miss Donna.”  We share this stirring duet in memory of Miss Summer.

LaMONTE NEWS:  LaMonte McLemore is excited!  His long-awaited memoir, “From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension,” as told to Robert-Allan Arno, promises to be another hit for “Mac,” due at the dawning of new year 2015.  With recommendations by Johnny Mathis, Nancy Sinatra, Neil Sedaka and Otis William of the Temptations, the book’s official release date, plus subsequent tour, and Mac’s media appearances will be announced, soon.  LaMonte invites you to connect with him at his new LinkedIn page for the latest details.

Join LaMonte McLemore on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/pub/lamonte-mclemore/aa/97a/28b

By the way, our FOREVER 5th DIMENSION year-end Top 10 countdown…2014’s “Greatest Hits” of The 5th Dimension Family of stars, will be here at the blog between Christmas and New Year…thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm!!