The 5th Dimension singer Lamonte McLemore turns 85
He is mostly remembered by the iconic The 5th Dimension 1969 song “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In”
The 5th Dimension singer Lamonte McLemore turns 85
Lamonte McLemore came to prominence in the 1960’s as the founding member of the vocal group The 5th Dimension who scored a No.1 hit with iconic 1969 song “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” originally written for the musical “Hair.” The lyrics of this song were based on the astrological belief that the world would soon be entering the “Age of Aquarius,” an age of love, light, and humanity, unlike the current “Age of Pisces.” The exact circumstances for the change are “When the moon is in the seventh house, and Jupiter aligns with Mars.” This change was presumed to occur at the end of the 20th century; however, astrologers differ extremely widely as to when. Their proposed dates range from 2062 to 2680, The 5th Dimension version is by far more popular than the original “Hair” version and earned them a big popularity status during the late 60’s and 70’s.
Best known as a founding member of the Grammy-winning vocal group The 5th Dimension and with a career that spans both music and photography, Lamonte McLemore was born on September 17, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Before achieving musical fame, McLemore pursued a career in photography. His talent behind the camera gained him recognition, and he became the first African American photographer for Jet and Ebony magazines, capturing iconic images of prominent Black entertainers, athletes, and cultural figures. His work in photography would later influence his unique visual contributions to The 5th Dimension.
In the mid-1960s, McLemore co-founded The 5th Dimension, originally called The Versatiles, alongside Marilyn McCoo, Billy Davis Jr., Florence LaRue, and Ron Townson. The group became known for their lush harmonies and innovative blend of pop, R&B, and soul music, scoring major hits with songs like “Up, Up and Away,” “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” and “Wedding Bell Blues.” Their groundbreaking sound earned them six Grammy Awards and widespread acclaim in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
McLemore’s role in the group was primarily as a baritone singer, but he was also integral to the group’s overall vision, helping to shape its style and direction. Though the group’s lineup evolved over time, McLemore remained a constant member until he eventually retired from performing.
In addition to his musical success, McLemore continued his work as a photographer, capturing key moments in entertainment history. His dual careers in music and photography allowed him to bridge the worlds of visual and performing arts.
McLemore has also been involved in mentoring and inspiring younger generations. He co-authored a memoir, From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension, sharing his journey from humble beginnings in St. Louis to international stardom. His personal life remains relatively private, though he has been candid about his experiences in the entertainment industry and his role in breaking down racial barriers.
Now retired, Lamonte McLemore’s contributions to both music and photography shaped American pop culture in significant ways.
Watch The 5th Dimension performing in 1969 “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In”
Watch more 1960’s related videos
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