FOREVER 5TH DIMENSION

Happy 48th Anniversary: A Salute to Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr.’s Greatest Duet Hits

Posted on July 26, 2017 | 3 comments

Summer is always a sentimental time for fans of Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr., for July 26 is the date of their wedding anniversary, this year marks 48 years! The seven-time Grammy winning founding members and former lead singers of legends The 5th Dimension, the scintillating “You Don’t Have to be a Star” duo who have shone brightly on “TV and stage” for decades are a timeless pair.

McCoo & Davis: Timeless

Indeed, the beauteous McCoo and the distinguished Davis continue to perform to the best reviews of their career. Just recently they honored Jimmy Webb at Carnegie Hall, stopping the show with their 50th anniversary rendition of “Up-Up and Away.” And coming up next month, as part of the 50th anniversary of “The Summer of Love,” the twosome will present their own love songs, hits, torch and blues at Feinstein’s at the Nikko, August 17-19 in San Francisco. But enough with “the 50th” because for our “MarBill” it’s merely their 48th! In celebration, a sampling of special fans have participated in the following survey to honor their Greatest Duet Hits. And when it’s all been said, in making such artistic choices an extension of our affection for the “Sweethearts of Pop n’ Soul,” we’d like to express our heartfelt congratulations and blessings on the occasion of your 48th anniversary, Marilyn & Billy. With Love, Robert & The Special Fans

The Question: If there would be an ULTIMATE McCOO & DAVIS GREATEST HITS CD featuring your favorites of their recorded DUETS, what personal top 5 (in no necessary order) would you choose? Pick singles and/or album tracks from their 4 primary duet projects (“I Hope We Get to Love in Time,” “The Two of Us,” “Marilyn & Billy,” “The Many Faces of Love,”)…or from their select Original 5th Dimension duets….or perhaps inspirational tunes like “Praise Ye the Lord” or “Keep the Lovelight Burning”…then there’s “I Believe in You and Me,” a duet featured on Marilyn’s solo album…etc., and THANK YOU for your participation!

The Fans Respond:

Brian Medoro Your Love, Together Let’s Find Love, Look What You’ve Done To My Heart, My Very Special Darling, What Does It Take (To Win Your Love)

Robyn Pippins Hi Robert, my top 5 would be You Don’t Have To Be A Star, In My Lifetime, You Are So Beautiful, Your Love, and The Two of Us.

Alain Baptiste My Love For You Will Always Be The Same, Nightsong, I Got Love For You, Just Once and our fifth is every other one they recorded! Happy Anniversary, Mariette and Alain

Paul Corley Perfect Dancer, Bye Bye Baby (w/ The Versatiles), There’s Got To Be a Happy Ending, We’ve Got To Get It On Again, The Times

Remember 8 Tracks?!

Jim Handakas I Believe In You and Me, The Two of Us, Carry Me, So Many Things for Free, You Don’t Have to Be a Star

Deniserose Torres How Do You Keep the Music Playing, Look What You’ve Done to My Heart, I Thought It Took A Little (But Today I Fell In Love), Keep The Lovelight Burning…. there is about a 7 way tie for a 5th song…but I will go with The Two of Us.

Loretta Sorensen I always had poor decision making skills causing me anxiety! But this is a nice and gentle anxiety ’cause it involves Marilyn & Billy – ha ha! My favs are Bobbie’s Blues, What Does It Take, Your Love, We Can Work It Out and You Don’t Have to Be A Star!

Estes John My Reason to Be is You, Keep the Lovelight Burning, How Do You Keep the Music Playing, Love all the Hurt Away, Look What You’ve Done to My Heart

Susie Paige Shine on Silver Moon, You Don’t Have to Be a Star, What Does it Take, The Two of Us, Praise Ye the Lord

“Praise Ye” appears on “The Love of God”

Douglas C. Charles Wishing these two Lovebirds the best of Anniversaries – and many more joyous ones to come. My “top 5” – Look What You’ve Done To My Heart, Your Love, Bobbie’s Blues, Every Night and My Very Special Darling

Renee T Armstead I have to say for the first one What Does It Take. Then Bobbie’s Blues, and Your Precious Love. Also, Soul and Inspiration, Together Let’s Find LoveSusan Aglio Every Night, What Does it Take, Soul and Inspiration, I Believe in You and Me, and I Hope We Get to Love in Time. And I just have to add one more…Keep the Lovelight Burning!

“Lovelight” appears on “The Me Nobody Knows”

Dale Kocik You Don’t Have To Be A Star, Your Love, Every Night, Together Let’s Find Love, Soul and Inspiration.

Andy Gard Your Love, Your Precious Love, Soul and Inspiration, My Reason To Be Is You, Carry Me

Elston Harry (of The Friends of Distinction) We Can Work it Out, Love all the Hurt Away

Robert-Allan Arno Gonna take a crack at this myself. I find the following 1st duet album sequence miraculously indelible: I Still Will Be With You, Never Gonna Let You Go, Nothing Can Stop Me. Then, Praise Ye the Lord. Finally, I will “cheat” by combining Together Let’s Find Love in “mash-up” with You Are So Beautiful!

Sweet Tweets! Marilyn & Billy Tweeted @mccoodavis their own day-by-day Anniversary Countdown with links to these musical gems….

Our 48th Wedding Anniversary Countdown! In Celebration of July 26, we share some of our fave duets like YOUR LOVE! https://t.co/X1fSYYQOlg
Anniversary Countdown! We had a Disco hit w/ SHINE ON SILVER MOON & got to perform it on @SoulTrain & DANCE FEVER! https://t.co/RZ4EwmtVQs
Our Anniversary Countdown! How we love singing YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL, dedicated to each other…and our special fans. https://t.co/M21F2IHBYs
Anniversary Countdown! THE TWO OF US–the title tune of our 2nd duet album and the closing theme of our TV series. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-8KjPv8-5s
Our Anniversary Countdown! We were so excited to perform this gem, I BELIEVE IN YOU AND ME together on SOLID GOLD! https://t.co/hwPtHQkIMV
Anniversary Countdown! How could we not include our #1! #YouDontHavetobeaStar, baby is from our hearts to yours! https://t.co/gw5IW3UAFpKeep in touch with Marilyn & Billy at their Official Facebook page, on Twitter (@McCooDavis), or visit www.mccoodavis.com

Special Thanks to Steve Rosenblum at Sterling-Winters

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McCoo & Davis: Summer of Love at Feinstein’s, San Francisco in August!

Posted on July 8, 2017 | Leave a comment

StarMcCoo-and-Davis-hugging-from-The-Brokaw-Co_WEB

As part of its celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love, Feinstein’s at the Nikko, San Francisco is thrilled to announce the appearances of…

MARILYN McCOO & BILLY DAVIS, JR.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 8 P.M.;

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18, 8 P.M.;

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 7 P.M.

TICKETS: $65 – $110

For tickets, go to events at: http://www.feinsteinsatthenikko.com/calendar/

Grammy Award-winning and gold & platinum-selling duo, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr., will celebrate their multifaceted 5 decade career in a show that includes R&B, Gospel, Jazz, Blues and Pop. As the original stars and lead singers of the legendary group The 5th Dimension, they launched champagne and pop/soul classics including “Up, Up and Away,” “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “Worst That Could Happen,” “Stoned Soul Picnic,” “Sweet Blindness,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” and “One Less Bell to Answer.” After leaving the group, Marilyn & Billy recorded “You Don’t Have to be a Star,” a chart topping #1 record which earned them their 7th Grammy Award and a television series on CBS.

Enjoy this FOREVER 5th DIMENSION slide show of Marilyn & Billy, today with some fun “throwbacks,” too!

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Visit Marilyn & Billy at http://www.mccoodavis.com; or at their official FB page or on Twitter @mccoodavis

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Florence LaRue & The 5th Dimension In Concert: A “Funshine” Picnic!

Posted on July 7, 2017 | Leave a comment

The Original 5th Dimension made a memorable appearance during 1967’s “Summer of Love” at the now historic Fantasy Fair & Magic Mountain Music Festival in Marin Country, California…and 50 years later, Florence LaRue & The 5th Dimension brought their eternal sunshine to the Marin County Fair! Group member Patrice Morris described the exhilarating experience as “our best concert ever!” And super-fan, our good friend Andy Gard shares with us his heartfelt review as an exclusive for FOREVER 5th DIMENSION…

BIRTHDAY “FUNSHINE” WITH FLORENCE LaRUE & THE 5th DIMENSION by Andy Gard

Marin County Fair, Sat. July 1st–Leading to my 56th birthday on July 3, I can honestly say this was one of the best days of my entire life! As usual, The 5th Dimension played a huge part in that. I’ll also add that this show was unequivocally the best concert I’ve seen by the current lineup of the group. Everyone (Florence, Patrice, Leonard, Floyd and Willie) was in top form from the get-go and every single song was given 110%. Even better was the fact that the group is doing more “5th material,” including “Workin’ On A Groovy Thing” and “California Soul” which I heard them perform for the first time that night, after the “Rain Medley” and before “One Less Bell To Answer.” The “electricity” exchanged between performers and audience made the evening into a real love fest.

L to R: Willie, Florence, Leonard, Patrice and Floyd (courtesy John Estes)

The show began and it was immediately clear the group’s energy was turned all the way up. After “September” and “My Girl” came “Groovy Thing” which led into a selection of the group’s biggest songs performed in full, including “Wedding Bell Blues” “The Worst That Could Happen” “Never My Love” “Last Night I Didn’t Get To Sleep At All” and “MacArthur Park.” “Stoned Soul Picnic” followed and as usual, Florence ventured into the crowd to invite people to dance with her. The first person she picked happened to be a guy named Andy and after his turn Florence announced, “Speaking of Andys, I have a friend in the audience named Andy and it’s his birthday. Where are you, Andy?” I made my presence known and went down front to Ms. LaRue, who asked if I’d been practicing my dance moves. I said I’d done my best and evidently it was pretty good judging from the feedback I received!

Andy dances with delightful diva Florence (courtesy Patrice Morris)

The rest of the show was fantastic and the crowd was so hyped up they were standing and dancing from the very beginning of “Aquarius” even before the transition into “Let The Sunshine In!” The group came back for an encore and at the very end led the audience in an accapella version of “God Bless America,” the perfect conclusion to a 4th of July weekend concert…as was the fire works display. Then, spending quality time with Florence backstage for a lovely post-concert visit was the “icing” on my birthday cake!

Check out more upcoming concerts…Florence LaRue & The 5th Dimension continue their “Champagne Soul” magic: https://www.pollstar.com/artist/the-5th-dimension-53228

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It’s a “Billy’s Greatest Hits” Celebration: A Birthday Tribute from the Fans!

Posted on June 26, 2017 | 1 comment

Billy Birthday Collage TWO June 26, 2017–The birthday of Billy Davis, Jr., our Gentleman of Soul has been special cause for celebration over the 9 years we’ve been doing FOREVER 5^th DIMENSION, honoring the man whose motto is “What comes from the heart, goes to the heart.” And that’s been proven in each and every one of his recorded and onstage renderings that have moved us over the years, from ballads to Blues, sweet-Soul treatises to full-throttle romps. Literally as I am writing this, our friends at REWOUND radio are honoring my own “Billy Birthday Request” in playing that tune of nostalgic loss yet eternal forgiveness, “Ashes to Ashes”…a personal favorite 5^th Dimension single of Billy’s. And last month, while his superstar wife of soon-to-be 48 years, Marilyn McCoo and the equally stellar Mr. Davis were being feted by the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters, it was fellow Original 5^th Dimension mate, Florence LaRue who declared emotionally from the dais that “No one sounds like Billy, his voice still brings a tear to my eye.” Also in May, at the Carnegie Hall tribute to Jimmy Webb, it was Billy who brought down the house, garnering a standing O for his interpretation of “The Worst that Could Happen”…a gem from “The Magic Garden.” And there are countless treasures from Billy that flood the “music of our minds” with his inimitable tone, textured timbre and depth of interpretive skills. “That’s not me, it’s God working through me” is Billy’s sincerely humble response to the many accolades he’s received from the likes of Webb himself, Maurice White (Earth, Wind & Fire), Eddie Levert (The O’Jays), and fellow Original 5^th founder, LaMonte McLemore. And Marilyn has endearingly talked to us about encouraging her hubby to record “When a Man Loves a Woman” for their “Many Faces of Love” project, and how he helped her with phrasing on her own iconic “One Less Bell to Answer.” Now here’s a sampling of “song-choice hurrahs” from select special fans who were invited to partake in this year’s “survey” as follows, for Billy’s Birthday Celebration ’17—

By special request: Choose your Top 5 Billy solos (in no particular order, unless you wish to do so) for a mythical yet potential Billy’s Greatest Hits CD, from his most memorable solo recordings with The Original 5th Dimension, or on the MarBill duet albums including the recent “The Many Faces of Love” or Live CD projects. Or choose from his inspirational album, “The Love of God” (formerly “Let Me Have a Dream”)…or an obscure single like the “soulicious” Three Steps From True Love, perhaps!

The Fans’ Responses…

Susie Paige: All are great of course but my favorites include: “Summer’s Daughter,” “Somebody Warm Like Me,” “A Change is Gonna Come,” “The Worst That Could Happen,” and “There Never Was a Day.”

Susan Aglio: Billy has SO many amazing songs but if I had to pick, my favorites are “The Singer,” which still can make me cry when I listen to it and “Speaking With My Heart,” which “spoke” to me personally.

Robyn Pippins: “When A Man Loves A Woman,” “Stay With Me,” “Stepping Out/Stepping In,” “The Singer,” “When Something is Wrong with My Baby.” Thanks Robert, I could go on and on!!

Renee Armstead: For me it’s of course “A Change is Gonna Come” and “Broken Wing Bird.” LOVE'S LINES ALBUM

Phyl Craig-Noto: THE SINGER!!!!!

Brian Medoro: “Don’t Stop For Nothin’,” “ I Just Want To Be Your Friend,” “Requiem: 820 Latham,” “Half Moon,” “I’ve Got A Feeling.” I could list tons more, but that’s my opening set list!! EARTHBOUND ALBUM

Cynthia Malachi White: My favorites are:
“When a Man Loves a Woman,” “I’m Blessed,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Summer’s Daughter,“ “A Change Is Gonna Come.”

Deniserose Torres: “Let It Be Me,” “Leave a Little Room,” “When Something is Wrong with My Baby,” “A Change is Gonna Come”… the 5th choice is always the hardest ‘cause I don’t want to leave anything off … but I will add some Blues and go with “Let the Good Times Roll!”

John Estes: My top 5 in order are:
“Broken Wing Bird,” “The Singer,“ “Requiem: 820 Latham,” “Summer’s Daughter,” “It’ll Never Be the Same Again” (I also want to give Honorable Mention to “Rusty Hands of Time”…what a great song!) billy tumbler one

Renee Armstead: Oh yes! “Rusty Hands of Time!” I LOVE that song. Add this to my list too, Robert. I remember after a MarBill concert I went to about four years ago, I mentioned this rare song to Billy and he laughed and said, “Listen to you! ‘Rusty Hands of Time?’ That’s an old song!” billy tumber two

Douglas C. Charles: Billy recorded so many great songs. His range and mastering of a song are incredible. It would be impossible for me to list in an exact order. That being said, five of my favorites are…” Leave A Little Room,” “Requiem: 820 Latham ,” “A Change Is Gonna Come” (best version I have ever heard, by the way), “It’ll Never Be The Same Again,” “I’ve Got A Feeling.” HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU BILLY!!!

Loretta Sorensen: Here ya go: “Let It Be Me,” “Requiem: 820 Latham,” “The Worst That Could Happen,” “Misty Roses,” and “A Change is Gonna Come.” Happiest of Birthdays, Dear Billy!

Andy Gard: Here are mine in basically chronological order, without rhyme or reason or extraneous personal opinion: “Misty Roses,” “Let It Be Me,” “Feelin’ Alright?,” “Leave A Little Room,” and “ I’ve Got A Feeling.” Happy Birthday to one of the greatest soul singers of our generation! (OK, so maybe a little personal opinion.)

Alain Baptiste: Mariette and I have been thinking about this…we immediately said A CHANGE IS GONNA COME and LEAVE A LITTLE ROOM. Mariette says MISTY ROSES too, I like FEELIN’ ALRIGHT. Our 5th choice is ALL the rest !! Happy Birthday and God bless a legend, BILLY DAVIS JR!! –Mariette & Alain

“Surprise, Fans! Now this is a rare one, huh?!”

I want to thank the fans for their select input which is a microcosm of what I’m sure so many feel about Billy’s artistry, the world over! Certainly, I too can speak of my favorite Billy tunes–each is timeless, taking on new meaning with each year–but talking of “years,” I’d like to share a snippet of my personal birthday note to Billy:

WESTBURY Davis, Arno, McCoo

Please know how grateful I am to know you over the years. With each new encounter, I am so touched by your thoughtful authenticity. You always seem to express things in a deep pastoral manner that serves as soothing “food for thought”…even when we’re sharing a laugh like at the recent Carnegie Hall after-party, it is caring and substantive. Man-to-man, I appreciate your continuing to be not only a great entertainer, but an overall role model.

Lastly, Marilyn & Billy brought the fans their own brand of fun this year with their 6-day “Countdown to Billy’s Birthday” on Twitter @mccoodavis. I’m gonna end this tribute with our duo, sharing the links to these amazing old n’ new classics so you can have your own Billy listening party!

Our Warm Happy Birthday Wishes & Blessings to a Great Man,

Robert & the special Fans

Countdown to Billy’s Birthday as seen on Twitter @mccoodavis…

Reflecting on memorable solos like this song of pure hope, LEAVE A LITTLE ROOM https://t.co/mE5scFB6u9

The smooth MISTY ROSES from our 1st Orig 5th Dimension album spells romance. https://t.co/42xEJwOtQz

The lyrical poetry of @realjimmywebb makes REQUIEM: 820 LATHAM a moving favorite. https://t.co/J8bFasbr01

BillyDavisJr A CHANGE IS GONNA COME makes a statement that’s an important part of our show to this day. https://t.co/G5himCfsee

From the EARTHBOUND album, “get down” with the Rock n’ Soul of I’VE GOT A FEELING! https://t.co/AsFe1I6GrA

From THE MANY FACES OF LOVE, WHEN A MAN LOVES A WOMAN is a special “Marilyn Request!” https://t.co/FTmT6JkmeN

7-time Grammy winning Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. appear in their Broadway-like review “Up-Up & Away–a musical fable” and in-concert…for appearance dates, “like” their official Facebook page or visit http://www.mccoodavis.com

Special Thanks to Steve Rosenblum, Sterling/Winters

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Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. Perform Under the Stars, July 1st at Music in the Mountains

Posted on June 13, 2017 | Leave a comment

For Immediate Release: Music in the Mountains presents a concert by 7-time Grammy Award winners, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr., Saturday July 1, 8 p.m., as part of SummerFest 2017 in Grass Valley, California. The artists are the original stars and lead singers of the legendary group, The 5th Dimension, where they launched Champagne & Pop Soul Classics, including “Up-Up and Away,” “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “The Worst That Could Happen,” “Stoned Soul Picnic,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” and “One Less Bell to Answer.” After departing The 5th Dimension, Marilyn & Billy as a duo recorded “You Don’t Have to be a Star (To be in My Show),” a #1 hit that won them their 7th Grammy Award and a television variety series on CBS. McCoo & Davis have garnered 15 gold and 3 platinum records during their careers.

Update: Marilyn & Billy performed “under the twilight canopy” amid the tall pines to rave reviews with the Music in the Mountains (MIM) Festival Orchestra conducted by Pete Nowlen, with their music director, Darrell Alston. From their greatest hits to love songs, blues & inspirational renderings, here are special onstage photos of the event…

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Photos courtesy MIM and Deniserose Torress

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A Heartfelt Tribute: Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. Honored by Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters

Posted on May 21, 2017 | 4 comments

A Forever 5th Dimension Exclusive by Robert-Allan Arno

On the dias for McCoo & Davis, a gathering of friends & colleagues L to r bttm: Lou Gossett., Florence LaRue, Marilyn & Billy, Joan van Ark; l to r top: President of PPB Alan Perris, Kathy Ireland, Harry Elston, Pat Boone, Wink Martindale (Photo by Roxanne Schorbach)

May 19, 2017–The prestigious Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters celebrity luncheon honored Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. for their achievements in radio & TV broadcasting with a heartfelt and fun-loving Friday afternoon tribute. As reported to Forever 5th Dimension from key attendees, the duo of the hour– 7-time Grammy-winning musical legends McCoo & Davis (“Up-Up and Away,” “You Don’t Have to be a Star (To be in My Show),” “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “One Less Bell to Answer”), were simply bowled over by such an affectionate array of reflections from those luminaries who appeared on the dais. Pioneer Placard

Pac Joan Actress Joan van Ark recited a compelling compendium of lyrics from various hit songs by The 5th Dimension while Florence LaRue delivered an emotional homage to her fellow Original 5th Dimension trailblazers and friends.

pac Florence The graceful LaRue cited Billy’s voice as one which still brings a tear to her eye. Actor Lou Gossett, Jr. and Harry Elston of The Friends of Distinction were downright hysterical (Harry’s nickname for Billy is “Wilbur”…with Billy trading quick quips with Mr. Elston!)

Harry Elston of The Friends of Distinction brought humor to the event.

Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. are joined by Kathy Ireland

The lovely Kathy Ireland as well as the perennially wholesome Pat Boone and TV host Wink Martindale brought faith-based thoughts to the proceedings, acknowledging Marilyn & Billy’s own hallmark of goodness, integrity and commitment to charitable causes.

PIONEER COLLAGE TWO

Saluting the first African American married couple to have their own network TV variety series, the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters put together a masterfully entertaining video montage of McCoo & Davis’s numerous artistic achievements.

Marilyn & Billy receiving the Art Gilmore Career Achievement Award from PPB President Alan Perris

Tony Orlando and LaMonte McLemore sent video and written testimonials to their lifelong friends and colleagues. Orlando (with Dawn counterparts) opened for The Original 5th Dimension, “back in the day” at Westbury Music Fair and credits that “gig” as getting his trio discovered for their iconic TV series. McLemore literally brought former beauty contest winner Marilyn and St. Louis buddy Billy together in LA, upon forming The 5th Dimension in ’65. McCoo & Davis will celebrate 48 years of marriage this coming July.

Having good fun at the McCoo/Davis Tribute L to r bttm: Florence LaRue, Marilyn & Billy, Pat Boone, Wink Martindale; l to r top: President Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters, Alan Perris, Harry Elston, Joan van Ark, Kathy Ireland

Visit Marilyn & Billy at their Official Facebook page,

on Twitter @mccoodavis

See their website for latest concert schedule; McCoo & Davis tour with their acclaimed Broadway-like autobiographical musical, “Up-Up & Away–a musical fable”: www.mccoodavis.com

Special Thanks to Steve Rosenblum, Sterling/Winters,

and the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters (http://www.ppbwebsite.org)

From-the-dais photos courtesy of the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters FB page

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Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. Soar at Jimmy Webb Celebration — Carnegie Hall, May 3, 2017

Posted on May 6, 2017 | 3 comments

A Forever 5th Dimension Exclusive by Robert-Allan Arno

It seems like New York City, itself and everyone who’s excitedly peeking in from all over today’s social media is making “the world a nicer place” while still abuzz about this past Wednesday’s Jimmy Webb Celebration! JimmyWebbHeader_3

The star-studded extravaganza at the “venue of venues,” Carnegie Hall, heralded the tunesmith extraordinaire, composer of such classics as “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “MacArthur Park” and of course, the multi-Grammy winning “Up-Up and Away.” At Forever 5th Dimension, we bring you exclusive coverage with that one-on-one, “MarBill touch”…

Our very own Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. immediately took the show to exemplary heights with their quintessential rendering of The Original 5th Dimension’s signature about that “beautiful balloon,” one that launched Jimmy’s career circa ’67, too. Defying the anthem’s 50th anniversary, the original lead singers of The 5th Dimension wowed the crowd exhibiting voices that were as pristine as ever while looking eternally glamorous and youthful. Marilyn’s stratospheric note at the end of “Up-Up and Away” would be metaphoric for the night’s entire uplifting affair. CARNEGIE UP UP

See the dynamic duo’s Carnegie Hall performance of “Up-Up and Away” here: https://youtu.be/LH5Yhp2mYUM

Then Billy stepped forward to deliver a languidly poignant version of “Magic Garden” mainstay “The Worst That Could Happen” (you know, the original which inspired the Johnny Maestro/Brooklyn Bridge hit). You want some “Forever 5th” tid-bits? Let’s shoot to the after-party at the trendy City Winery where Jimmy sighed about every original 5th-D member’s all-time fave album as we chatted: “Ah, ‘The Magic Garden,’ there was nothing like it…it was our very own ‘Sgt. Pepper.'” Billy confided to me about his Carnegie Hall rendition of TWTCH which received a well-deserved standing O, “I wanted to do the song for the fans and especially for Jimmy a bit more slowed down, to draw attention to his words…as it should be.” Marilyn shared while we exchanged vocal preservation tips, “Billy avoided sweets the week before, so his delivery would be extra-crystal clear.” Then we all bit into the celebratory luscious brownie triangles at the post-show soiree!

Savor Billy’s Carnegie Hall performance of “The Worst That Could Happen” here: https://youtu.be/unsy1CxtWFQ

BIG GROUP Back to the stage, performances by other legends including Judy Collins, Art Garfunkel, BJ Thomas, Johnny Rivers, Dwight Yoakam, Catherine Zeta-Jones, surprise guest Michael Feinstein, Amy Grant and Graham Nash (both in duet with Jimmy), Broadway’s Liz Callaway, stunning newcomer currently touring with Stevie Wonder–Shelea and more, displayed the versatility of genre inherent in Webb’s unparalleled songwriting style. The tribute, hosted by Jimmy’s old friend, actor Michael Douglas–with proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Foundation with regard to Jimmy’s friend and colleague Glen Campbell–also helped to usher in Webb’s new memoir, “The Cake and the Rain.” Ashley Campbell, Glen’s daughter made a touchingly memorable musical appearance while Toby Keith made a mighty one with his interpretation of “MacArthur Park.” We’re pleased to bring you the show’s complete song list, here:

LIZ CALLAWAY

The entire cast assembled “under the twilight canopy” for the big finale, with Marilyn & Billy leading their star compatriots to a soaring finish…

Finale in a “Beautiful Balloon” (photo courtesy James Gavin)

I mentioned to Marilyn how fitting it was that she and Billy virtually got to bookend the show with “Up-Up and Away.” The graceful lady thoughtfully reflected, “The night was so special for us, and so well-executed for Jimmy.” I also noted that although they’ve toured all over the world since then, the twosome had last appeared at Carnegie Hall with The 5th Dimension in ’72…in fact, “If I Could Reach You” was the current hit Marilyn soloed with that night. Marilyn and Billy took it in like two kids listening to a favorite bedtime story–these are legacy artists who are non-jaded and define gracious. I recalled, “I remember you guys were wearing those formal-looking black one-piece outfits with the silver embellishments.” Billy exclaimed, “That is correct! I remember those jumpsuits so well!”

Here they are, The 5th Dimension in those “back in the day” black & silver jumpsuits!

I added, “When I co-wrote LaMonte’s (McLemore) memoir, he cited that particular sold-out concert at Carnegie Hall as the one the State Department took notice of. It essentially prompted them to make The 5th Dimension musical ambassadors, organizing your historic tour behind the ‘Iron Curtain.'” Marilyn responded with an endearingly wholesome, “Oh my gosh!” Billy capped things off with a heartfelt observation of the current night’s proceedings: “Robert, please tell the fans…to have all of us come together for Jimmy Webb, people like Johnny Rivers who really helped start it for us–The 5th Dimension as well as Jimmy…where we haven’t been in the same place at the same time for years, was truly astounding!”

L to R: Billy Davis, Jr., Robert-Allan Arno, Marilyn McCoo…embarking on a cozy chat at the Carnegie Hall after-party, City Winery, NYC

Very special thanks to Steve Rosenblum, Sterling/Winters,

and Marilyn & Billy

Touring in their acclaimed autobiographical show, “Up-Up and Away–A Musical Fable,” for concert dates & more visit: Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. (Official) on Facebook, their website: http://www.mccoodavis.com or Twitter @mccoodavis

Courtesy Jimmy Webb Facebook page

(Forever 5th Dimension by Robert-Allan Arno, a production of The Soul of The Voice, Ltd. copyright 2008-2017, intellectual property, all rights reserved. Photo credits: Arno 5th McCoo/Davis Legacy Collection, Jimmy Webb Facebook page, James Gavin)

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Tagged Billy Davis Jr., Jimmy Webb, Jimmy Webb Celebration at Carnegie Hall, Marilyn McCoo, Robert-Allan Arno, The 5th Dimension, The Magic Garden, The Original 5th Dimension, The Worst That Could Happen, Up-Up and Away

Jimmy Webb with Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. and other stars coming to Carnegie Hall!

Posted on March 28, 2017 | Leave a comment

A Celebration of the Music of Jimmy Webb will be taking place Wednesday May 3rd, 8pm at Carnegie Hall, New York City. The show will feature Jimmy plus Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. The couple made history as original lead singers of The 5th Dimension, garnering 4 Grammy awards for the quintet’s hit version of Webb’s premiere songwriting mega-success, “Up-Up and Away.” Also appearing on the star-studded bill at Carnegie Hall: Johnny Rivers, Art Garfunkel, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Graham Nash, Amy Grant, Judy Collins, Hanson, Dwight Yoakum, Toby Keith, Ashley Campbell (Glen Campbell’s daughter) and more!

Tickets range from $48 – $160; VIP packages start at $325

Selection page for regular tickets at: http://bit.ly/2muhbOl.

For VIP packages, go here: musicof.org

StarMcCoo-and-Davis-hugging-from-The-Brokaw-Co_WEB

All proceeds go to the Alzheimer’s Foundation

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Tagged Amy Grant, Art Garfunkel, Carnegie Hall, Jimmy Webb Celebration, Johnny Rivers, Judy Collins, McCoo & Davis

Celebrating a Legacy

Posted on February 18, 2017 | Leave a comment

Honoring Black History Month ’17–

a Forever 5th Dimension Exclusive Report by Robert-Allan Arno

Museum Display— Here’s a lively backstage photo of The Original 5th Dimension: Marilyn McCoo, Billy Davis, Jr., LaMonte McLemore, Florence LaRue & Ron “Sweets” Townson circa ’70. It’s from photographer Arnie Lee‘s famed shoot of the quintet (onstage & off, at Eastern Michigan University) and we’re so proud to note that select pics from this session–including this one!–are currently on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture.

florence-fringe-now

Florence’s Milestone, A Gathering of Forever Friends— Our delightful diva, Ms. Florence LaRue just toasted a milestone birthday. She shares with us:

“WOW!! I haven’t the words or the time to individually thank the many people all over the world who sent wonderful birthday wishes to me! I thank God for all of you taking the time to do so; and I thank Him for allowing me to live 75 healthy years!~~~Yes 75!! I understand that some had my years much younger, but I am grateful for the years of learning, experiencing and growing closer to God! My heart is so full~~~THANK YOU! THANK YOU!! THANK YOU!!! I feel SO loved! 🙂 and I send love to you!” —Florence

Current & founding members of The 5th Dimension join Ms. LaRue at her birthday soiree. L to R: Floyd Smith, Marilyn McCoo, Billy Davis, Jr., Florence, Leonard Tucker & Patrice Morris

On Feb. 18, Florence had a sumptuous house party attended by friends, family, fans and musical colleagues, including Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. who sang, individually at the intimate gathering. Also attending were current members of The 5th Dimension: Patrice Morris, Leonard Tucker and Floyd Smith. Here’s a lovely photo commemorating the event.

Memoir Available on Amazon*

LaMonte Celebrates–– And throughout this meaningful month, founder of The 5th Dimension, LaMonte McLemore is making select media appearances discussing the harmonious, unifying legacy of The 5th Dimension, his hit memoir “From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension,” and featuring his exciting new song, a call for global peace: CEASE FIRE.

Available at CD Baby:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/lamontemclemore

“Mac” has appeared with Jimmy Howes on WGHT, Freddie Bell and Chantel on “The People’s Station”–KMOJ, Teddy Bear on LOTL Radio and just taped a podcast for world-wide distribution with the engaging Chris Yandeck at “CY Interview”:

You can listen to LaMonte’s heartfelt, in-depth chat with Chris at this easy link: http://www.cyinterview.com/2017/02/up-up-and-away-the-5th-dimension-founder-lamonte-mclemore-talks-his-life-and-his-book-from-hobo-flats-to-the-5th-dimension-a-life-fulfilled-in-baseball-photography-and-music/

Essential Links:

Visit LaMonte McLemore on: Facebook, Twitter @LaMonteMcLemore, and Linked-in

*Purchase Mac’s 5-star hit memoir, FROM HOBO FLATS TO THE 5TH DIMENSION at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hobo-Flats-5th-Dimension-Photography/dp/0692307362/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487528579&sr=8-1&keywords=hobo+flats+to+5th+dimension

Visit Florence LaRue & The 5th Dimension for concert schedule & more at: http://5thdimensionlive.com

Visit Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. for appearances & more at: Facebook Official, on Twitter @mccoodavis or at: http://www.mccoodavis.com

Bonus shot! Marilyn & Mac, circa ’70, by Arnie Lee

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Tagged Arnie Lee, Billy Davis Jr., Black History Month, Florence LaRue, LaMonte McLemore, Marilyn McCoo, Ron Townson, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, The 5th Dimension, The Original 5th Dimension

Marilyn & Billy: Valentines in Vegas

Posted on February 15, 2017 | 1 comment

Feb 11 & 12, 2017 marked the 3rd consecutive yearly Valentine’s Day weekend concert appearance of “First Couple of Pop n’ Soul,” Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. at the Orleans Casino Hotel in Las Vegas. Their “Up, Up & Away” extravaganza with superb musicians under the direction of Darrell Alston, including singers Cydney Davis, Andre Carthen and Cynthia Bass was not only sold-out but an enthralling standing O success.

McCoo & Davis with talented musicians & singers bring “Up, Up & Away” extravaganza to Vegas, Valentine’s weekend

LaMonte McLemore with fan, Jonathan Weitz

Attending was founder and original member of The 5th Dimension, LaMonte McLemore who declared, “Marilyn and Billy never rest on their laurels…their show was fabulous!” And special fans were there in full force like Andy Gard, Jonathan Weitz, and the ever observant DeniseRose Torres who brings us this exciting collage of onstage photos to behold! Enjoy! –Robert-Allan Arno