Apollo Hall of Fame honors Aretha and King of Pop

VIDEO - Just shy of the one-year anniversary of his death, Michael Jackson's tribute was more of a memorial--with a touch of humor..

TheGrio Staff

Jun 15, 2010

Jamie Foxx welcomed guests who had gathered at the Apollo Theater for a tribute to the king of pop—Michael Jackson, and the queen of soul—Aretha Franklin.

Sharon Jones and Estelle performed some of Aretha’s greatest hits. After the queen of soul received her award, she graced the audience with a short performance.

Just shy of the one-year anniversary of his death, Michael Jackson’s tribute was more of a memorial—with a touch of humor.

Actor-comedian Chris Tucker accepted the award on behalf of the Jackson family.

Stars on the red carpet including power couple Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony talked about Jackson’s legacy.

“Anybody who does what we do, sing and dance, in an entertainer, looks up to him because he did it at such a high level. Everybody was like I want to be Michael Jackson,” Lopez said.

Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony received the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian Award during the event.

Monday’s ceremony was part of the theater’s 2010 Spring Benefit.