Yes, I was at the home of the late Michael Jackson. We'll not his actual home....but possibly his spiritual home. Or at least the home of his musical career. Or birthplace...whatever!
Wednesday night at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem is Amateur Night, and there was nothing amateur about it. This is where the Jackson 5 and Alicia Keys amongst others were discovered.
The night kicks off with some kiddy talent which we missed most of due to the exceptionally slow service at the Southern Soul Food restaurant called Sylvias. Although when that mountain of ribs did come half an hour after our order, despite letting them know we were in a hurry, it was worth it.
Young hopefuls step up onto the stage in a packed theatre and give it everything they have. And if the crowd like it they cheer, if they don't they boo. If they get more boos than cheers they get kicked off.
And trust me....the folks up in Harlem sure like to make their opinion known! When a Chinese R'n'B singer came on if felt like we were suddenly transported to the set of a Jerry Springer show. The poor guy won't be pursuing a career in music after that! Ba bye!
Definitely a night worth having even if I did feel like the straight white geek in a crowd of cool, grooving black peeps!
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