Since getting bit by the travel bug back in 2012, one of my first semi-solo travel experiences was in New Orleans. After spending an extended weekend, New Orleans has become one of my favorite U.S. cities. In addition to the great food, I loved the music, history, and overall culture. After a long day covering an event, I trooped my way from Lincoln Center to 125 Street in Harlem to listen to live jazz at The Apollo Theater.
On this particular night, Irvin Mayfield Jr and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra performed. I was so excited that I kept singing the “Showtime at the Apollo” theme song. Being at the Apollo Theater made me feel that I ‘made it’ and wasn’t even performing! A plus for the Irvin Mayfield Jr and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra show was Louis Armstrong’s induction into the Apollo Walk of Fame. There was a huge celebration with the band and community the night before; If it were anything close to the street performances in New Orleans, I’m sure it was awesome.
Irvin Mayfield Jr and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra played several pieces including Stevie Wonder’s “Secret Life of Plants”, led by saxophonist Ricardo Pascal and James Williams’ rendition of Disney’s Toy Story “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”. Aaron Neville even came to the stage to perform. It was an older crowd and very easy going, but the experience of listening to live Jazz at the Apollo Theater was amazing.
Have you been to the Apollo Theater before?
