The Fifth Dimension was one of the most successful vocal groups of the late 1960s and early 1970s, blending soul, pop, and psychedelic sounds with stunning vocal harmonies. Their polished image and uplifting sound produced classics like “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “Up, Up and Away,” and “Wedding Bell Blues.” But after their peak years, many fans wondered: what happened to the members of The Fifth Dimension?
Here’s an in-depth look at the original members, their post-Fifth Dimension lives, and where they are today.
The Rise of The Fifth Dimension
The group was originally formed in 1966 in Los Angeles. The original lineup included:
- Marilyn McCoo
- Billy Davis Jr.
- Florence LaRue
- Lamonte McLemore
- Ron Townson
They were brought together by McLemore, who had initially formed a smaller group called The Hi-Fi’s. The addition of McCoo and Davis helped solidify a dynamic quintet that would go on to achieve mainstream stardom under the guidance of producers like Bones Howe and songwriters such as Jimmy Webb and Laura Nyro.
Their 1967 breakthrough hit “Up, Up and Away” earned them five Grammy Awards and catapulted them into fame. The group continued with a string of hits, achieving both commercial success and critical acclaim.
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. were not only lead vocalists of the group but also became a couple, marrying in 1969. Their romantic and musical chemistry was a major part of The Fifth Dimension’s success.
In 1975, they left the group to pursue a duo career, which proved successful. Their 1977 hit “You Don’t Have to Be a Star (To Be in My Show)” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won them a Grammy Award. They also hosted a popular variety show, The Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. Show, in 1977, making them one of the first African-American couples to co-host a television series.
Over the decades, McCoo and Davis have continued to perform together, blending Fifth Dimension classics with gospel and R&B numbers. In 2021, they released an album titled Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons, which paid tribute to the Beatles and addressed civil rights themes. Still married and still performing, they remain active on the music scene.
Florence LaRue
Florence LaRue has had perhaps the most enduring connection to The Fifth Dimension name. After McCoo and Davis left the group, LaRue continued performing under the original band name with newer members. Over the years, she has kept the music alive, leading The Fifth Dimension through various lineup changes.
Aside from singing, LaRue has appeared in musical theater and television, and she’s been involved in philanthropic work. She has remained a tireless advocate for the group’s legacy and continues to tour, even into her 70s. Today, she still performs under “The 5th Dimension featuring Florence LaRue,” keeping the spirit and sound of the original group alive for new generations of fans.
Lamonte McLemore
Lamonte McLemore, the founder of the group, had a multifaceted career that extended beyond music. Before forming The Fifth Dimension, he worked as a professional photographer and even became the first African-American photographer hired by Jet and Ebony magazines.
He stayed with The Fifth Dimension for over 35 years before retiring from active performance in the early 2000s. In 2014, McLemore released his memoir, From Hobo Flats to The 5th Dimension: A Life Fulfilled in Baseball, Photography, and Music, chronicling his remarkable journey.
Though retired, McLemore occasionally makes public appearances and has been celebrated for his role in bringing together one of music’s most unique vocal groups.
Ron Townson
Ron Townson was known for his rich baritone voice, anchoring many of the group’s harmonies. After leaving The Fifth Dimension in the late 1970s, he pursued a solo career and was involved in opera and theatrical productions.
He briefly rejoined the group in the 1980s and later focused on directing and community arts initiatives. Sadly, Townson passed away in 2001 at the age of 68 due to kidney failure. His contributions to the sound and soul of The Fifth Dimension remain an essential part of the group’s legacy.
