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 People
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Aretha Franklin
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
- Famous Black Entertainers
- Soul Train Guests
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 Black Entertainers
Michael Jackson
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 died unexpectedly in 2009.
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Nat King Cole
- In these groups:
- Apollo Legends
- Famous Black Entertainers
- Jazz Singers
Nat King Cole
Singer / 1919 - 1965
Nat King Cole was a popular musician and one of the first black Americans to host a television variety show.
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Billie Holiday
- In these groups:
- Famous Harlem Residents
- Apollo Legends
- Famous Black Entertainers
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 Black Entertainers
Bessie Smith
Singer / 1894 - 1937
Sometimes referred to as The Empress of the Blues, Smith was the most popular female blues singer of the 1920s and 1930s.
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