Live at the Apollo

About

"Live at the Apollo" is a seminal live album by James Brown, recorded on October 24, 1962, at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. It was released in May 1963 by King Records. This album captures Brown's electrifying stage presence and showcases his soulful performances, marking a pivotal moment in music history. It was the first live album to feature continuous performances, simulating the experience of attending a live show. The album includes energetic tracks like "I'll Go Crazy" and "Think," as well as the poignant "Lost Someone," which demonstrates Brown's ability to command an audience. The album's success was unprecedented, staying on the pop charts for 14 months and reaching number two. It cemented Brown's status as a leading R&B star and influenced future live recordings. Despite initial skepticism from his label, Brown funded the recording himself, reflecting his confidence in his live performances. "Live at the Apollo" is celebrated for its raw energy and authenticity, offering listeners a glimpse into the vibrant world of 1960s soul music. It has been recognized as a timeless classic, included in the National Recording Registry and ranked among the greatest albums of all time by Rolling Stone.