Gainesville Saxophonist Makes History at Apollo's Amateur Night!

Florida City, Florida, USA - In an electrifying finale held on June 25, 2025, Gainesville’s own Emmanuel Garilus achieved a remarkable milestone by winning Amateur Night at the Apollo in Harlem, New York. This iconic venue has long been a launching pad for aspiring artists, and Garilus, a professional saxophonist, emerged victorious during the celebratory 90th season of the beloved talent show. He entranced the audience with a soulful rendition of Whitney Houston’s classic „I Will Always Love You“ played on his saxophone, marking a thrilling moment in his career and in the history of the Apollo Theater.

Garilus’s victory stands out not only for his captivating performance but also because he is believed to be the first contestant to secure first place in all four rounds of competition. Remarkably, this win is the first time the grand prize has been awarded to an instrumental musician. Prior to this triumphant performance, he participated in the One Nation One Project (ONOP) GNV Talent Search program, aimed at reducing youth gun violence through culture and the arts. An enthusiastic Garilus expressed his gratitude for being chosen as a winner in this important program.

A Historic Accomplishment

As a testament to his talent and hard work, the 25-year-old musician received a $20,000 grand prize, along with a special-edition Bulova watch and an opportunity for a weeklong professional development experience in Los Angeles at Coke Studio. His remarkable journey is particularly impressive considering he began playing the saxophone at age 13 in his hometown of Port Au Prince, Haiti. Garilus is a graduate of the University of Florida’s Arts in Medicine program, where he honed his skills that would ultimately lead him to this prestigious stage.

In addition to Garilus, the event also saw 16-year-old Nyla Martin crowned as the “Child Star of Tomorrow”, winning a $5,000 prize for her rendition of „I Am Changing.“ Martin’s performance, alongside Garilus’s, only added to the significance of the 2025 finale as it marked the last traditional edition of Amateur Night until the Apollo’s Historic Theater reopens in 2026 for renovations. While the famed venue undergoes updates, Apollo programs and variations of Amateur Night will continue at The Apollo Stages at The Victoria Theater.

The Apollo Theater’s Legacy

The Apollo Theater, established in 1913, has long been a cornerstone of African American culture and entertainment. Originally opened as Hurtig and Seamon’s New (Burlesque) Theater, it was renamed after being purchased and became well-known for showcasing talents during the Harlem Renaissance. In 1934, the theater officially opened its doors to African American performers, changing the face of American music. Legends like Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, and Marvin Gaye graced its stage, making it a vital stop for Black entertainers across generations.

Dating back to its first Amateur Night that featured Ella Fitzgerald, the Apollo has never shied away from hosting a diverse range of unique acts. With a legacy of fostering talent, the theater has cultivated an environment that encourages artists to showcase their abilities in front of enthusiastic audiences. Hot 97 and WBLS served as official partners during the grand finale event, bringing together a community that celebrates and supports emerging performers.

The cheers echoing through the Apollo on the night of Garilus’s victory were not just for him but were a tribute to the theater’s enduring legacy of nurturing talent and creativity. With over 1 million views on YouTube and more than 100,000 monthly listeners, Garilus’s journey is just beginning, and his upcoming performances are sure to captivate audiences at future events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and Christian concerts.

As Emmanuel Garilus continues to follow his passion, one thing remains clear: the Apollo Theater has played a vital role in his ascent to musical stardom, upholding its tradition as a foremost venue that champions the arts and empowers artists from all walks of life.

For more on Emmanuel Garilus’s astounding achievement, read the full details on Gainesville.com and learn more about the Apollo Theater’s legacy on Britannica.