Apollo Music Cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

What music did they listen to on Apollo 11?

During the historic Apollo 11 mission in 1969, the astronauts listened to a variety of music to help them relax and feel connected to Earth. Notably, Buzz Aldrin played a cassette tape of "Fly Me to the Moon"

What is cafe music called?

Cafe music is typically known as "café music" or "coffeehouse music." It refers to a relaxed, ambient musical style often played in cafés and coffee shops to create a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. Café music spans a variety of genres, including soft jazz, acoustic, bossa nova, indie, chill-out, and sometimes light classical or instrumental tracks. In France, this style is sometimes referred to as "chanson" or "French café music," often featuring the accordion, guitar, and gentle vocals. Café music is curated to be unobtrusive yet uplifting, providing a pleasant sonic background for patrons to enjoy conversations, work, or leisure activities. The genre is also popular on streaming platforms, with curated playlists labeled as "café jazz,"

Is Apollo still in Harlem?

Yes, the Apollo Theater is still located in Harlem, New York City. Situated at 253 West 125th Street, the Apollo remains an iconic landmark and a vibrant center for music and culture in Harlem. Since its opening in 1914 and especially after becoming a major venue for African-American performers in the 1930s, the Apollo Theater has played a crucial role in the history of American music, launching the careers of legends like Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. Today, the Apollo continues to host a variety of live performances, including music concerts, comedy shows, and its famous Amateur Night. The venue is central to Harlem's identity and is recognized nationally as a symbol of Black culture and talent. Its ongoing programming, community initiatives, and live events keep the Apollo Theater at the forefront of New York's arts scene, attracting visitors and music lovers from around the world.

What genre of music is Apollo?

The Apollo Theater is renowned for its deep roots in R&B (Rhythm and Blues) music, but its stage has supported a wide range of genres over the years. While R&B remains a cornerstone, the Apollo has also been pivotal in the development and showcasing of jazz, soul, gospel, blues, hip-hop, and funk. Legendary artists from these genres, including Billie Holiday (jazz), James Brown (soul and funk), and Lauryn Hill (hip-hop and R&B), have graced its stage. The Apollo Music Cafe, in particular, emphasizes R&B, serving as a platform for both established and emerging artists within the genre. However, the theater's programming is diverse, reflecting Harlem's rich musical heritage. The Apollo continues to evolve, welcoming contemporary styles while honoring its legacy as a launchpad for influential African-American music genres, with R&B as its foundation.

Who owns the Apollo Theater in Harlem today?

The Apollo Theater in Harlem is currently owned by the Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit organization. This foundation was established in 1991 to manage and preserve the historic venue, ensuring it remains a vital part of New York City's cultural landscape. The foundation operates the theater as a performing arts center while also supporting educational and community outreach programs. The Apollo Theater Foundation is dedicated to maintaining the theater's legacy as a hub for African-American culture and the arts. The venue is operated in partnership with the City of New York, which purchased the building in 1991 to save it from closure. However, the day-to-day management, programming, and preservation efforts are handled by the Apollo Theater Foundation, ensuring the venue continues to thrive as an iconic Harlem institution.