Lamonte Herman McLemore

Lamonte Herman McLemore, a multifaceted American artist renowned as a founding member of the iconic vocal group The 5th Dimension and a pioneering photographer, passed away on February 3, 2026, at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was 90 years old. McLemore's career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the music and visual arts landscapes of the United States. His contributions to popular culture helped shape the sound and imagery of an era, breaking barriers and celebrating Black excellence.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, McLemore's talents were evident early in life, extending beyond music to include a notable athletic career as the first African American to try out for the St. Louis Cardinals. Following his service as an aerial photographer in the U.S. Navy, he channeled his artistic vision into photography, becoming the first African American photographer hired by Harper's Bazaar magazine and capturing the cover for Stevie Wonder's debut album. His lens documented Black life and beauty for over 40 years, notably through his work for Jet and Ebony magazines.

McLemore's musical journey began with the formation of The Versatiles in 1965, which soon evolved into The 5th Dimension. With his warm bass vocals, he helped anchor the group's distinctive "champagne soul" sound, leading to a string of chart-topping hits. The group garnered widespread acclaim, earning multiple Grammy Awards, including two for Record of the Year for their timeless anthems "Up, Up and Away" and "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In." These songs became cultural touchstones, embodying the optimistic spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Beyond his musical achievements, McLemore remained dedicated to his photographic craft, publishing his autobiography, "From the Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension," in 2014, and a significant collection of his photography, "Black Is Beautiful: JET Beauties of the Week," in 2024. His work as a photographer provided a vital platform for the representation of Black women, challenging prevailing beauty standards and celebrating their diverse elegance. Lamonte McLemore's legacy is one of artistic innovation, cultural impact, and a profound commitment to representation.