The 5th Dimension

The 5th Dimension is an American pop and soul vocal group, known for their sophisticated harmonies and crossover hits in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The original group consisted of Lamonte McLemore, Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Ronald Townson, and Billy Davis Jr. They achieved success with hits like "Up, Up and Away" and "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.”

The current members are Florence LaRue (1966–present), Leonard Tucker (2006–present), Patrice Morris (2008–present), Floyd Smith (2009–present), and Sidney Jacobs (2018–present).

The 5th Dimension emerged in Los Angeles in 1965, originally performing under the name the Versatiles. The group’s five original members brought together a striking range of musical backgrounds. Lamonte McLemore came from jazz, Ron Townson had roots in opera, and Billy Davis Jr. drew from R&B and gospel traditions. Marilyn McCoo and Florence LaRue, both of whom had experience in college music and pageant competitions, rounded out the ensemble. Soon after their formation, the group signed with Johnny Rivers’ Soul City label and adopted the name that would make them famous: the 5th Dimension.

The group’s style was a distinctive fusion of pop, soul, and psychedelic influences, which gave their music a polished yet innovative sound. Their breakthrough arrived with Jimmy Webb’s “Up, Up and Away,” a soaring track that earned multiple Grammy Awards and established them as a major act in American popular music. The success continued with iconic hits like “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” from the musical “Hair,” as well as “Stoned Soul Picnic” and “Wedding Bell Blues.” Along with chart success, the 5th Dimension became regulars on television variety shows and performed at prestigious venues, cementing their image as versatile entertainers.

Beyond the music, the 5th Dimension represented an important cultural crossover. Their ability to blend elements of pop, soul, and rock brought together diverse audiences at a time of rapid social change. The individual members also found success apart from the group. Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. built a thriving career as a duo, recording hits and appearing on television. Over the years, the group earned multiple Grammy Awards, gold and platinum records, and their place in history was further honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The 5th Dimension’s legacy is one of harmony—both musical and cultural. Their sound not only captured the optimism of their era but also helped bridge musical worlds, leaving an indelible mark on American music history.