The Apollo Theater has unveiled this year’s honorees for its Spring Benefit, the theater’s largest annual fundraising event, set to take place on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, the renowned creative force in music, will be presented with the inaugural Legacy Award. Multi-platinum global superstar and eight-time Grammy Award winner, USHER, will be honored with the Icon Award at the celebratory benefit concert.
“I am humbled to receive the inaugural Legacy Award. The theater has been a constant symbol of excellence in Black entertainment for nearly a century. So for The Apollo to honor my legacy feels nothing short of amazing,” shared Babyface. USHER expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s an honor to be receiving this award from such an iconic and historic cultural institution in New York City. I’m humbled to be this year’s recipient and look forward to seeing everyone soon.”
As The Apollo marks its 90th anniversary, the evening will also showcase special appearances by Hip Hop legend Big Daddy Kane. Music Direction will be led by GRAMMY and EMMY Award-winner Adam Blackstone, with additional performers to be announced.
Babyface will be officially inducted into The Apollo’s Walk of Fame on Monday, June 10 at 11:30 am, a day before the Spring Benefit. He joins a prestigious list of Apollo Walk of Fame inductees, including Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Patti Labelle, and Mary J. Blige. Each inductee receives a plaque installed under the Theater’s iconic marquee on 125th Street.
“The Apollo has stood as an enduring beacon in Harlem, nurturing artists and fostering education,” said Michelle Ebanks, President & CEO of The Apollo. “The Spring Benefit will be an unforgettable evening celebrating our ongoing legacy and honoring our cultural icons.”
Proceeds from the event will support The Apollo’s year-round artistic, education, and community programs. The organization remains committed to projecting the African American narrative through arts and culture.
In a landmark move, The Apollo is set to expand with The Apollo Stages at The Victoria at 233 West 125th Street. This expansion and the restoration of its Historic theater solidified Apollo’s role as a pivotal institution in Harlem and New York City.
The Spring Benefit starts with red carpet arrivals at 5:00 PM, followed by the Benefit concert and awards ceremony at 7:00 PM. The evening concludes with the event’s legendary afterparty designed by Apollo board member, Bronson Van Wyck.
For more information on the event and ticket purchases, visit here. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements on special honorees and performers.
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