The Apollo stage is one of the most iconic and lauded cultural landmarks in the entertainment industry. However, as much as people respect the venue, they also fear it because of the notoriously brutal audience members who spare no hesitation when it comes to expressing disdain for featured acts.

Although amateur night at the Apollo has always given young performers the opportunity to showcase their talent, it was the former series ‘Showtime at the Apollo’, which aired from 1987 to 2008, that introduced signed acts to the world. From Aaliyah to Mary J. Blige, artists had to survive that gauntlet if they wished to be accepted by the Urban community.

Check out some of the best performances from ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ below:

Aaliyah – ‘If Your Girl Only Knew’

Fugees – ‘Fu-Gee-La’

Lil Kim – ‘Crush On You’

Mariah Carey – ‘Love Takes Time’

Mary J. Blige & Keith Murray – ‘I’m Going Down’/’Be Happy’

Patti LaBelle – ‘All The Man That I Need’

If only we could have a series like ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ in 2012. It would truly hilarious to watch some of today’s artists – Rihanna, Katy Perry and Britney Spears – brave the stage and be informed by thunderous boos that they sound horrible. In fact, that might give them the motivation they need to take their craft seriously.

Photo by Wabash College

Thoughts?