Happy Birthday, Billy: Curating the Solos of our Gentleman of Soul

Posted on June 25, 2021 | Leave a comment

June 26, 2021: Billy Davis, Jr. is truly an American treasure. The multi-Grammy winning soul stylist, with roots as lead singer of The Original 5th Dimension–along with his beautiful wife of soon-to-be 52 years and duet partner, Marilyn McCoo–has an instantly recognizable voice. Fellow-Original 5th mate, the vivacious Florence LaRue declares, “No one sounds like Billy…he can break your heart!” And his best comrade, 5th-founder LaMonte McLemore punctuates his own memoir (“From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension’) by acknowledging: “Billy’s lead on ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ says it all.” Mac adds, “Not to mention his ‘havin’ church’ on our biggest hit ‘Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.'” Yes, the man who implored the world to “Sing along with The 5th Dimension” invited us to share in his own harmonic journey….that of an incomparable legacy artist, a stellar showman, and an inspiring faith-based figure. Marilyn reminds, “Billy always says, ‘What comes from the heart goes to the heart.'” Heralded by the likes of Jimmy Webb (“Up-Up and Away”), Eddie Levert (The O’Jays) and Maurice White (Earth, Wind & Fire), Billy humbly sums up his talents best of all, “That’s not me…it’s God working through me!” Happy Birthday Billy, on behalf of your myriad global fans, we love you and celebrate you with these curated 20 solo “Billy gems” at this YouTube link:

Happy Birthday Billy Davis, Jr. — His Greatest Solos! – YouTube

~~Robert-Allan Arno, Forever 5th Dimension

Billy Davis, Jr. & Marilyn McCoo, 2021; The duet’s newest CD, “Blackbird: Lennon/McCartney Icons” is available on Amazon & Spotify.

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd, intellectual property, all rights reserved, copyright 2008-2021)

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Summer of Excitement by Robert-Allan Arno

Posted on June 11, 2021 | Leave a comment

We’re coming out of a difficult time and leave it to the essence of the original stars of The 5th Dimension, just as they did during the turbulent times of the late ’60’s, to STILL bring their inimitable sunshine for the summer of 2021, a time where we also celebrate our 14th year of Forever 5th Dimension. And I can’t thank the stars, my dearest of friends and personal mentors, Marilyn & Billy, Florence, and LaMonte for their “forever soul & inspiration!” Now let’s dig in to the latest & greatest…

Who I call “my angels,” Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. have a critically acclaimed new CD project, “Blackbird: Lennon/McCartney Icons” and the song selection and interpretations make this glowing affair “milestone & magnificent” with a call to Civil and Human Rights…and a winning vote for the twosome’s eternal artistry. I’m simply leaving the Amazon link, fans & friends, if you have not already purchased. (And what an honor to be mentioned, personally, in their liner notes for the project.) Forever 5th Dimension announces a very special interview between yours truly, Robert-Allan Arno and “MarBill” about this equally special endeavor in time for their 52nd wedding anniversary (7/26), at a very cool literary venue…details upcoming! We’re gonna take a deep dive with the Q & A! Order “Blackbird: Lennon/McCartney Icons” at Amazon, here: Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. – Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons – Amazon.com Music

The docufilm “Summer of Soul,” already an award-winner at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, produced by Questlove, makes its theatrical debut on July 2nd. The Original 5th Dimension, at the apex of their prowess, perform the No. 1 song of the time, and the year, for that matter, “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” and more. Yes, the year is 1969, it’s the Harlem Cultural Festival and all of the artists who performed including Nina Simone, Mahalia Jackson, BB King, Stevie Wonder, David Ruffin, and Sly & The Family Stone, have literally been unearthed with this priceless un-vaulted and restored archival footage complete with new interviews. Featuring an emotionally compelling one with McCoo and Davis…roll out the Red Carpet and don’t miss it!

The ever vivacious “delightful diva,” Florence LaRue and The 5th Dimension (Patrice, Floyd, Leonard & Sidney) are back touring this summer, with tasty dates from east coast to west! (Please scroll down and see our article) Ms. LaRue and The 5th never disappoint their sold-out crowds with the best “Champagne Soul” in town…and lots of surprises!

“From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension,” the hip hit memoir, on Amazon!

LaMonte McLemore thanks each of you, his memoir “From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension” (which I had the pleasure to co-author) continues to sell well, the world over…a shout-out to fans in England, Japan, France, Canada, and of course, the USA! We have great fun on his Facebook page which I get to curate with Mac and his lovely wife Mieko, currently celebrating #BlackMusicMonth…and there’s always a plethora of rare and classic photos everyone seems to love. “Mac” has some surprises up his magical sleeve, too…stay tuned, and as he winks, “Right on!”

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-21, all rights reserved)

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Remembering B.J. Thomas

Posted on May 31, 2021 | Leave a comment

From LaMonte McLemore‘s FB page…

We are saddened by the loss of the great B.J. Thomas who excelled in Pop, Country & Gospel–he always brought Soul to every note! It was an honor for me to solo with “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head” during The 5th Dimension’s “Rain Medley” in our live shows. Our condolences & prayers, LaMonte & Team

Marilyn McCoo recounted at the FOREVER 5th DIMENSION interview, “Marilyn & Billy’s Livingroom” and in a feature I conducted with Marilyn & Billy (Davis, Jr.) at Culture Sonar for their 50th wedding anniversary, that among her favorite duet partners while hosting TV’s memorable “Solid Gold” was B. J. Thomas. Marilyn & Billy also expressed that it was so good to be performing at the Jimmy Webb Carnegie Hall tribute a few years back, with cherished friends like B. J. ~~Robert-Allan Arno

2 of the Best: Here are Marilyn & B. J. duet-ing with 3 of Mr. Thomas’s greatest hits: “Raindrops,” “Hooked on a Feelin'” and “Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song”:

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd. copyright 2008-21, all rights reserved)

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Memorial Day Weekend Listening Tip!

Posted on May 29, 2021 | Leave a comment

From LaMonte’s Facebook page:

On this Memorial Day Weekend, we remember the courageous men and women of the military who have bravely given their lives to keep our country safe. And we offer this “right on” listening tip. Our wonderful friends at Rewound Radio will be playing classic air-checks from the 60’s & 70’s all weekend long, taken from the all-time Number 1 music radio station of the time, WABC-AM. You’ll hear, in context, the many hits of The 5th Dimension–and your other fave chart-topping artists–and you’ll also experience some of our nifty retro-commercial jingles for Coca Cola & McDonalds. Listen & enjoy at this link: www.rewoundradio.com

~~We’re wishing you a peaceful, safe holiday weekend, fans & friends, LaMonte, Mieko with Robert-Allan ❤

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-21, intellectual property all rights reserved)

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#Throwback Fun…All the World Over!

Posted on May 27, 2021 | Leave a comment

From LaMonte’s Facebook Page:

#ThrowbackThursday We’re having some fun today, sharing rare import album/single sleeve artwork…”all the world over” The Original 5th Dimension resounded with “harmony & understanding!” 🙂 Enjoy everyone! ~~Robert-Allan for Team Mac ❤

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd, all rights reserved copyright 2008-21)

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Marilyn & Billy Return to the Stage!

Posted on May 21, 2021 | Leave a comment

Our west coast friends…or those who travel…mark July 10 on your calendars…it’s Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr., Thelma Houston (including a tribute to Mary Wilson), Michael Feinstein and the Pasadena Symphony & Pops as part of the Sierra Summer Series…in “Road to Motown.” Forever 5th calls it “Road to Fantastic!“

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Florence & The 5th Dimension: A New Touring Schedule Coming Soon!

Posted on May 17, 2021 | Leave a comment

Exciting news! According to the Facebook pages of current members of The 5th Dimension, Patrice Morris and Sidney Jacobs, The 5th Dimension featuring Florence LaRue will be issuing their updated, post-pandemic touring schedule very soon…and FOREVER 5th DIMENSION will keep you updated, as always. My dear friend, the indomitable sweetheart of the Rock n’ Soul era, Florence LaRue always keeps it ultra-fresh yet historical, presenting a “Champagne Soul” cavalcade of greatest hits and surprises to delighted sold-out concert crowds who can never get enough of the magic of “The 5th.” Stay tuned, fans & friends for more uplifting news! ~~Robert-Allan Arno

JUST IN!

The Ridgefield Playhouse, Connecticut, Aug. 6, 2021…details at this link:

The 5th Dimension | The Ridgefield Playhouse

Plus West Coast Dates: 8/28/21– Yoshi’s in Oakland; 8/29/21– Coach House in San Juan Capistrano!

More Dates Coming Soon!

#The5thDimensionFlorenceLaRue #The5thDimensionGrammysGoldPlatinumHits #The5thDimensionInConcert

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McCoo/Davis’ “Blackbird: Lennon/McCartney Icons” Album Officially Flies on April 30

Posted on April 28, 2021 | Leave a comment

The publicity campaign has been exhilarating so far…fan & media anticipation is high…

the official release of Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr.’s “Lennon/McCartney Icons” will be Friday, April 30…

including lyrics, historic background, exclusive and rare photos…it’s Marilyn & Billy reimagining the Beatles & more in a plea for Civil and Human Rights…and unconditional Love for all.

Blackbird…The Fool on The Hill…Ticket to Ride…Yesterday…And I Love Her…The Long & Winding Road…Help…Just Like Starting Over…Silly Love Songs, more…

Pre-order at Amazon here and check “MarBill’s” official pages for more up-to-the-minute information:

Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. – Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons – Amazon.com Music

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-2021, all rights reserved.)

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Happy Birthday, Mr. Bones!

Posted on March 18, 2021 | Leave a comment

3/18: Happy Birthday to the man with the “golden ears,” Mr. Bones Howe, the Grammy-winning mega-producer of The Original 5th Dimension. I’d always tell Bones, “Keep doin’ what you’re doin’!” and he’d always smile humbly in appreciation of his “Mac.” When you’d see “Production & Sound by Bones Howe” on our albums, you could expect some patent leather perfect Champagne Soul! It was Bones’ genius that put together “Aquarius” with “Let the Sunshine In,” making it a Platinum mash-up for the generations. Did you know one of his favorite album cuts is “Summer’s Daughter” off our “Magic Garden” album? Bones was always the kindest, most assuring, and mellow gentleman whose musical vision helped to unite diverse people. Please join us in wishing him special blessings on his special day. We Love ya, Mr. B!  ~~LaMonte McLemore with Robert-Allan Arno for Team Mac

(Photo Collage: Top–“Up-Up & Away” recording session, l to r: Florence, Ron, Marilyn, Billy, LaMonte, Bones, Jimmy Webb); “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” single sleeve–Production & Sound by Bones Howe; The Original 5th Dimension; LaMonte at home amid gold/platinum records; Bottom–Bones Howe)

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-2021, Intellectual Property, All Rights Reserved)

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“Blackbird”: McCoo & Davis Soar with Powerful Musical Statement

Posted on February 27, 2021 | Leave a comment

When Marilyn & Billy showcased “Blackbird” as part of the Beatle’s medley in their “Up-Up & Away: A Musical Fable” onstage retrospective a few years back, Ms. McCoo re-defined the classic tune as a soulmate to Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit.” And now presenting its recording*: A passionate, graceful approach makes for a multi-layered message from Marilyn…a breathtaking title song for the 1st couple of Pop & Soul’s upcoming Lennon/McCartney project, available for pre-order at Amazon. ~~Robert-Allan Arno

From Founding member of The 5th Dimension:

“One of Marilyn’s all-time best. My forever friends & former Original 5th Dimension colleagues, McCoo & Davis just keep getting better & better…pay attention young artists!” ~~LaMonte McLemore

Friends & Fans, listen to ‘Blackbird’ right now on YouTube…

*LINK to “Blackbird”: https://youtu.be/Yg5FZJ3AZww

Just in to FOREVER 5th! From Grammy-winning producer of The Original 5th Dimension, Bones Howe:

 Robert, please convey that Bones and I wish Billy and Marilyn love, and success with their new album. ~~Melodie Johnson Howe

Bonus! Watch Marilyn & Billy talk about The 5th Dimension legacy & their new recording on CBS SUNDAY MORNING, taped 2/29/21, at this link: https://youtu.be/qfPJfM9R450

Pre-Order Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr.’s “Blackbird: Lennon/McCartney Icons” CD at Amazon, here:

Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons by Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. on Amazon Music – Amazon.com

And a very special message from Jason Winters of Marilyn & Billy’s Management:

Thank you, Robert for loving and protecting each member of The 5th Dimension. Your relationship with LaMonte (& Mieko), Marilyn & Billy, and Florence is special and precious. Thank you for honoring the legacy of these iconic artists. Imagine the history just made. This week, the 5th Dimension returned to the top of the charts for the first time in 50 years. A miracle. We are all excited about the “Blackbird” project. Whenever we mobilize the support of one (or in this case two) for all and all for The 5th, we have #Victory! Limitless gratitude for all you bring to The McLemore’s during these times and to Forever 5th Dimension each day. You are a hero and blessing. Always, Jason, Erik, Jon, Stephen, Steve and Kathy

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd., copyright 2008-2021, Intellectual Property, All Rights Reserved)

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