The Apollo Theater in New York City is one of the most famous music halls in the United States, and the most famous club associated almost exclusively with Black performers.

The Apollo probably exerted a greater influence upon popular culture than any other entertainment venue in the world. For blacks it was the most important cultural institution–not just the greatest black theatre, but a special place to come of age emotionally, professionally, socially, and politically. The Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame has inducted such renowned performers and music-industry figures as Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson, James Brown, Quincy Jones, Billy Eckstine, Gladys Knight, The Pips, and Patti LaBelle.

It was in August 1967 when Joseph Jackson loaded his kids into a well-worn Volkswagen bus and drove from Gary, Ind., to 125th St. so the Jackson 5 could enter the Apollo Theater's famed Amateur Night competition. They won that night and the rest is history.