Larry Blackmon is a renowned American musician, songwriter, and record producer who gained prominence as the founder and lead vocalist of the funk and R&B band, Cameo. With his distinctive red codpiece and high-energy performances, Blackmon became an iconic figure in the music industry. As of 2023, Larry Blackmon’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million.
Here are five interesting facts about Larry Blackmon:
1. Musical Journey: Larry Blackmon’s musical journey began at an early age. Born on May 24, 1956, in New York City, he was raised in a musically inclined family. Blackmon’s father, Robert Blackmon Sr., was a jazz musician who played the trumpet. Growing up, Larry gained exposure to various genres of music, including jazz, R&B, and funk, which influenced his own musical style.
2. The Formation of Cameo: Larry Blackmon formed Cameo in the early 1970s, initially naming the group the New York City Players. The band underwent several lineup changes before finally settling with Blackmon as the lead vocalist and drummer. Cameo released their breakthrough album, “Secret Omen,” in 1979, which spawned the hit single “I Just Want to Be.” This success propelled the band into the limelight, and they continued to release chart-topping hits throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
3. The Iconic Red Codpiece: One of the most recognizable aspects of Larry Blackmon’s stage persona was his red codpiece. He started wearing this distinctive piece of clothing as a way to add a visually striking element to his live performances. The codpiece became synonymous with his image and became an iconic symbol of funk and R&B music.
4. Producer and Songwriter: Alongside his role as the lead vocalist of Cameo, Larry Blackmon also worked as a producer and songwriter. He played a significant role in writing and producing the band’s music, contributing to their distinctive sound. Blackmon’s production skills are evident in the band’s biggest hits, such as “Word Up!” and “Candy,” which showcased his ability to create infectious grooves with catchy melodies.
5. Larry Blackmon’s Legacy: Larry Blackmon’s contributions to the music industry and his influence on funk and R&B cannot be understated. His unique vocal style, energetic stage presence, and innovative production techniques have left an indelible mark on the genre. Blackmon’s music continues to inspire new generations of artists, and his legacy lives on through his timeless hits.
Now, let’s address some common questions about Larry Blackmon:
1. What is Larry Blackmon’s age?
Larry Blackmon was born on May 24, 1956, which makes him 67 years old as of 2023.
2. How tall is Larry Blackmon?
There is no publicly available information about Larry Blackmon’s height.
3. What is Larry Blackmon’s weight?
Unfortunately, there is no publicly available information about Larry Blackmon’s weight.
4. Is Larry Blackmon married?
As of 2023, Larry Blackmon’s marital status is not publicly known.
5. What is Larry Blackmon’s net worth?
Larry Blackmon’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million as of 2023.
6. Did Larry Blackmon have a solo career?
While Larry Blackmon is primarily known for his work with Cameo, he did release a solo album titled “Funky-Butt” in 1996.
7. What are some of Cameo’s biggest hits?
Cameo’s biggest hits include “Word Up!,” “Candy,” “She’s Strange,” and “Single Life,” among others.
8. Has Larry Blackmon received any awards for his music?
Cameo, with Larry Blackmon at the helm, was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 1987 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group. They were also inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2003.
9. Is Larry Blackmon still actively performing?
As of 2023, there is no current information available regarding Larry Blackmon’s active involvement in the music industry.
10. Did Larry Blackmon contribute to the songwriting for Cameo?
Yes, Larry Blackmon played a significant role in writing and producing many of Cameo’s songs, showcasing his talent as a songwriter and producer.
11. What inspired Larry Blackmon’s iconic red codpiece?
Larry Blackmon started wearing the red codpiece to create a visually striking element during his live performances, making him stand out and become an iconic figure in the music industry.
12. How did Larry Blackmon’s father influence his music career?
Larry Blackmon’s father, Robert Blackmon Sr., was a jazz musician who played the trumpet. Growing up in a musically inclined family exposed Larry to various genres, which ultimately influenced his own musical style.
13. Are there any recent collaborations or projects involving Larry Blackmon?
As of 2023, there have been no recent collaborations or projects involving Larry Blackmon in the public eye.
14. What is Larry Blackmon’s lasting legacy in the music industry?
Larry Blackmon’s contributions to funk and R&B music, his distinctive vocal style, and innovative production techniques have left an enduring impact on the music industry. His timeless hits continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.