GROUPS
Apollo Legends
Many African-Americans made their name performing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, including Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown and Jimi Hendrix. The roster of talented artists who made their careers after a successful amateur night at the Apollo grew so large, that the venue earned a reputation as the place to jump-start the career of an ambitious hopeful. Other performers, like Aretha Franklin and Michael Jackson, came to the theater after experiencing big professional success, adding further credibility to the historic New York concert hall. Explore the biographies of some of the more notable African-Americans who stepped out onto the Apollo stage, making entertainment history.
FEATURED VIDEO
Featured Apollo Theater Legends
Get to know some of the amazing entertainers who have graced the stage the World Famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Watch video and more!
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Aretha Franklin
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Influential Female Musicians of the 1960s
- Weight Loss Winners
Aretha Franklin
Singer / 1942 -
Multiple Grammy winner and "Queen of Soul" Aretha Franklin is known for such hits as "Respect," "Freeway of Love" and "I Say a Little Prayer."
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Marvin Gaye
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Soul Train Guests
- Famous Arians
Marvin Gaye
Singer / 1939 - 1984
Marvin Gaye was a soul singer-songwriter with Motown in the 1960s and 1970s. He produced his own records and often addressed controversial themes.
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Michael Jackson
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Celebrity Bookings
- Famous People Involved in Sex Scandals
Michael Jackson
Dancer, Songwriter, Music Producer, Singer / 1958 - 2009
Singer-songwriter Michael Jackson's award-winning career as the King of Pop transformed the face of pop music and popular culture. He released the best-selling album in history, Thriller, in 1982. He died unexpectedly in 2009.
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Nat King Cole
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Jazz Singers
- The Ed Sullivan Show Guests
Nat King Cole
Film Actor, Television Actor, Pianist, Singer, Television Personality / 1919 - 1965
Nat King Cole became the first African-American performer to host a variety TV series in 1956. He's best known for his soft baritone voice and for singles like "The Christmas Song," "Mona Lisa" and "Nature Boy."
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Billie Holiday
- In these groups:
- Famous Harlem Residents
- Apollo Legends
- Foremothers of Rock
Billie Holiday
Singer / 1915 - 1959
Billie Holiday was one of the most influential jazz singers of all time. She had a thriving career for many years before she lost her battle with addiction.
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Bessie Smith
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Foremothers of Rock
- Famous Jazz Musicians
Bessie Smith
Singer / 1894 - 1937
Jazz and blues vocalist Bessie Smith's powerful, soulful voice won her countless fans and earned her the title "Empress of the Blues."
Black History People
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Black History Groups
Learn more about the lives of African-Americans who have made extraordinary achievements in their fields, with our collection of Black History Groups.
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Black History Videos
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Black History Videos
Watch full episodes of Black History icons, record-breakers and leaders. See how famous figures like Barack Obama, Abraham Lincoln and Jackie Robinson changed history. See all videos.
Black History Photos
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Black History Photos
Flip through these photos of some of Black History's most important, controversial and inspiring figures. Check out our African-American Firsts - Athletes, Black Comedians, Million-Dollar Ideas, African-American Biopics, African-American Expats, or explore all of our Black History photos.
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Black History Timeline
Celebrate the historical icons of America's black community through this interactive journey.

June Carter Cash
Famous Fiction Authors
Angelina Jolie
My Ghost Story
I Survived
Babe Ruth
Johnny Cash
Georgia O'Keefe
I Survived




