Larry Blackmon

Larry Ernest Blackmon (born May 24, 1956) is an American vocalist and musician who gained acclaim as the lead singer and founder frontman of the funk and R&B band Cameo.

Larry Blackmon
Born (1956-05-24) May 24, 1956
New York City, New York, United States
GenresR&B, soul, funk, disco
Occupation(s)
  • Singer
  • songwriter
  • record producer
  • arranger
InstrumentsVocals, bass guitar, drums, percussion
Years active1971–present
LabelsChocolate City, Atlanta Artists, Mercury, Reprise, Way 2 Funky, Raging Bull, Crash, Private I
Associated actsCameo, Black Ivory

Musical career

Starting the band "East Coast", Blackmon formed the "New York City Players" as a compliment to the Ohio Players. Having to rename the group because of a conflict, Blackmon later called the group Cameo. Blackmon lived in Harlem and played drums on several hits for the band Black Ivory. He is the son of Lee Black, a former boxer. Along with his unique vocal style, Blackmon's other personal touches included sporting an elaborate hi-top fade haircut and a codpiece over his pants. His signature "Ow!" was used as the intro for some of the band's songs. The group Cameo appeared at Adventureland Palace, sponsored by Black Pride Inc., on April 26, 1978. Blackmon founded Atlanta-based funk quartet CA$HFLOW, which had a hit with "Mine All Mine" in 1986.

Guest appearances

Blackmon appeared as a backing vocalist on Ry Cooder's 1987 album Get Rhythm and Cyndi Lauper's 1989 album A Night to Remember. He also had co-producer credits on Eddie Murphy's 1989 album So Happy. The snare drum sound that Blackmon created for "Word Up!" and "Candy" was duplicated on releases by a wide range of artists.[1]

Personal life

One of his sons is heavily involved in the New York political scene,[2] while another son is currently involved in the hip hop music industry.

See also

References
  1. Allmusic biography
  2. "Remember 'Cameo's lead singer Larry Blackmon? His son looks like him but chose different career". Amo Mama.


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