The Incredible Journey of Billy Mitchell at the Apollo Theater

When Billy Mitchell’s mom sent him to Harlem from the South Bronx one fateful day in 1965, he had no idea that the trip would change his life forever. While his mission was simple — borrow some money from an aunt who lived in the area, across from the world-famous Apollo Theater — it would set him on the path to coming face-to-face with some of the biggest names in music.

Unexpected Beginnings

While running this errand, Mitchell was approached by Frank Schiffman, co-founder of the Apollo Theater, who simply said, “Hey kid, you want to make some money?” Although apprehensive at first, Mitchell, born in Mount Vernon, New York, and someone who had spent time in foster homes, realized the job didn’t sound too bad: go run errands for a man named Berry Gordy who was hosting a show called Motown.

A First Encounter with Music Legends

“It was the first time I saw The Supremes, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and this group called the Contours,” Mitchell recalled. “Yeah, my first time running errands was for Motown. My first day, you can say, on the job, I wasn’t on the books. But it was my first introduction to giving service and doing service for the Apollo Theater.”

Billy Mitchell: Mr. Apollo

Now, 55 years later, Billy Mitchell is still a pivotal figure at the Apollo Theater—although he is undoubtedly on the books now. Since that first day “on the job,” Mitchell, affectionately known as Mr. Apollo, has undertaken various roles: handing out flyers, ushering, managing the gift shop, security, marketing, stagehand, group sales, producing, and even creating the Apollo Theater tour in 1991. Additionally, he serves as the theater’s official historian. It’s safe to say that Mitchell achieved notable success while mastering the intricacies of this legendary venue.

Visit the Apollo Theater

The Apollo Theater is rich in history and remains one of the best places to experience live music in New York City today. Be sure to check out the theater’s calendar of upcoming events for live music, comedy, and professional events. Furthermore, make it a point to attend on a Wednesday for Amateur Night, which still runs today, giving you the opportunity to witness some of the most promising up-and-coming artists in the industry.