What the Apollo Theater and Prince Have in Common When it Comes to Patti LaBelle
The Apollo Theater and Prince are beloved national treasures whose stocks continue to rise despite the passage of time. Both are portals from which timeless and transcendent music have emanated. Both were in the spotlight for the Apollo Theater’s grand 75th anniversary celebration that also honored Patti LaBelle.
Prince made the trek to the Apollo Theater on 125th Street in Harlem, N.Y., despite recent health challenges, to help formally induct his dear friend, Patti LaBelle, into the Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame.
“Patti LaBelle is like a sister, a mother, a teacher, my cook [which incited laughter from his fans] … my stylist,” Prince said in his signature baritone after the prolonged ovation and screeching finally subsided to a low roar. “She taught me so much. She helps my guitar playing. I try to make my guitar play like she sings. I love her with all my heart. And I’m here for her. I just want you to know how much you mean to me.”
If LaBelle didn’t know it before, she was made aware of just how much she means to Prince after that night on the Apollo stage. –terry shropshire
