Usher And Babyface To Be Honored At The Apollo’s 2024 Spring Benefit

Usher and Babyface are set to be honored by The Apollo Theater at its annual Spring Benefit on June 11 to commemorate its 90th anniversary.

Babyface will receive the inaugural Legacy Award at the celebratory benefit the day after being inducted into The Apollo Walk of Fame while Usher receives the Icon Award at the fundraising event.

“I am humbled to receive the inaugural Legacy Award. For nearly a century, the theater has been a constant symbol of excellence in Black entertainment. So for The Apollo to honor my legacy feels nothing short of amazing,” said the acclaimed songwriter-producer in a statement.

Usher expressed, “It’s an honor to be receiving this award from such an iconic and historic cultural institution in New York City – one that has hosted and paved the way for so many prominent people. I’m humbled to be this year’s recipient and look forward to seeing everyone soon.”

Big Daddy Kane will be among the special appearances while music direction will be helmed by Adam Blackstone. Performers and more guests are to be announced in the coming weeks.

“The Apollo has stood as an enduring beacon in Harlem, nurturing artists, fostering education, and sparking creativity across the world,” said Michelle Ebanks, President & CEO of The Apollo. “I’m thrilled to celebrate the ongoing legacy of our organization and our commitment to arts and education at the Spring Benefit. It will be an unforgettable evening of performances and a time to honor our cultural icons.”

Interested parties will be able to see Babyface get inducted into the Walk of Fame on Monday, June 10 at 11:30 a.m. ET. His honor joins a storied list of luminaries who’ve helped influence the culture and have all graced The Apollo stage at one point. This includes Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Richard Pryor, Patti LaBelle, Smokey Robinson, Jackie “Moms” Mabley, Gladys Knight, Lionel Richie, Ella Fitzgerald, Temptations, and most recently, Mary J. Blige.

Tickets for the benefit itself starts at $1,750 and can be purchased here.