Tag Archives: MarilyBilly

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.

*****

Please read Marilyn & Billy’s statement about the loss of their friend, Neil, at their official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccoodavis/

Listen to Workin’ on a Groovy Thing, here: https://youtu.be/OAVZcmlaoLw?si=nXefYZ291PwfTAO2

Listen to Puppet Man, here: https://youtu.be/e_TpFZ51AP0?si=IkqMg5NhLOkNpZZB

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