"California Soul: In Memory of Nick Ashford" by The 5th Dimension

The 5th Dimension Family expresses its prayerful sympathies on the passing of Nickolas Ashford of the legendary Ashford & Simpson. The duo penned The 5th Dimension classic, Top Twenty Five fan favorite, "California Soul" and were so warmly enthusiastic in recounting to me for my writing of the liners to THE ULTIMATE 5th DIMENSION CD how much they enjoyed the quintet's take on their composition, "We couldn't have been happier with The 5th Dimension's heartfelt rendition of our song," smiled Nick and Val.

Yet another gem from 1968's STONED SOUL PICNIC album, "California Soul" had the perfect metaphoric title for The 5th's then state-of-mind. Here, the group textures the Ashford & Simpson saga of sand, surf and good lovin' with an ultra-hot mix of driving rhythm and sumptuous call and response between the guys--Billy, LaMonte & Ron, and the girls--Marilyn & Florence. The production by Bones Howe defines "upbeat meets soulfully chic," that special brand that by this time, The 5th Dimension fully embraced with verve and some spicy relish on the side!

Today our hearts are heavy, but we remember all the beautifully sweeping, soulful music that Nick Ashford collaborated on with his wife, Valerie--"Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "Solid (As A Rock)," "Reach Out and Touch (Somebody's Hand)," "You're All I Need to Get By," "Your Precious Love," the latter tune passionately covered by leading 5th Alum, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. on their latest CD, THE MANY FACES OF LOVE. And here, within this special tribute to Nick, The 5th Dimension Family celebrates the joyful genius of his lyrics: "Like a sound you hear, that lingers in your ear, but you can't forget from sundown to sunset..." On this sad occasion, Mr. Ashford's pen paints more than the exciting vibe of "California Soul" but an autobiographical echo of his poignantly powerful legacy.

Robert-Allan Arno
Biographer, The original 5th Dimension
August 23, 2011
(copyright 2011)

With love and appreciation to Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr., Florence LaRue and The current 5th Dimension and LaMonte McLemore who all keep the "Champagne Soul" flame glowing brightly. And to the fans, you are a blessing to us all.

Essential Links:

*Join us for "Reflections of Angels: A Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. Exclusive" interview in 2 Parts at our globally-acclaimed Blog-zine, FOREVER 5th DIMENSION--

*Part 1 is at http://www.myspace.com/thesoulofvoice/blog/543851402

*Part 2 at http://www.myspace.com/thesoulofvoice/blog/543857841

**The Collector's Edition: Marilyn & Billy's latest CD, THE MANY FACES OF LOVE is not only interactive but now a Collector's Edition, featuring their special interpretations of the greatest Pop-Soul Love Songs including Ashford & Simpson's "Your Precious Love." Go to their main page, the Band Box, to get your autographed copy & even a free song download at:
http://www.mccoodavis.com

***Visit Florence LaRue and The 5th Dimension at: http://www.thefifthdimension.org
and http://www.florencelarue.com

****Visit the world of LaMonte McLemore at: http://www.lamontephotography.com

Video photo credits: The Arno 5th Dimension/McCoo/Davis Legacy Collection, courtesy of Ryuji Riijima, The exclusive LaMonte McLemore Collection, all rights reserved.

FOREVER 5th DIMENSION is a copyrighted production of The Soul of the Voice, Ltd., 2011, all rights reserved.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• The 5th Dimension
• Marilyn McCoo
• Billy Davis
• Jr.
• Ashford & Simpson
• Nick Ashford
• Valerie Simpson
• Florence LaRue
• LaMonte McLemore
• Bones Howe
• Robert-Allan Arno
• FOREVER 5th DIMENSION
• Stoned Soul Picnic

[Bobbipens]

Very nice tribute