The Fourth Annual Apollo Legends Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place on June 2, 2008 at the The Apollo Theater, Harlem, New York City and Motown legend Smokey Robinson was this year’s inductee.

Denzel and Pauletta Washington received the Ruby Dee & Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian Award. Wanda Sykes was the host. Attendees included Janet Jackson, Terrence Howard, Spike Lee, Jermaine Dupri, Marcia Gay Harden, S. Epatha Merkerson, the Rev. Al Sharpton, Earth Wind & Fire (who also performed).

Smokey Robinson has been a living legend to music fans for years. Now it’s official: The 68-year-old R&B icon was inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame. He joins a roster that includes Gladys Knight, James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald and Little Richard.

Robinson, with wife Frances and clad in a custom navy pinstripe suit and powder-blue tie, said of his predecessors, “I have been very fortunate to have known all those people, and they made wonderful musical and personal contributions.”

He also talked about how much the theater itself means to him. “I’m so honored just to be here. They should never tear this place down,” he said. “It’s the grandaddy of all of them.”

Sykes, in black Dolce & Gabbana, was excited to host “my first big show at the Apollo. Hopefully, I won’t screw it up.”

Veteran jazz singer Nneena Freelon sang a languid version of Robinson’s “Tears of a Clown.” Husband and wife singer/songwriter team Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson introduced Robinson, who in his humble acceptance speech praised the Apollo for being “like a stepping stone — it has always been — for black artists.”

Singer/songwriter India Arie paid homage to the Washingtons with songs that “came to mind when I think of you — both of you.” Among them was a sultry “Brown Skin.”

Terrence Howard and Janet Jackson set a reverent tone with their affectionate tributes to the couple.

The Washingtons then spoke, alluding to their faith and the role it played in their 25-year relationship. Pauletta said they’re proof that show-business marriages can work.

Source: Live at the Apollo: Smokey Robinson & The Washingtons

Fourth Annual Apollo Hall of Fame 2008 Inducts Smokey Robinson (Photos)