Michael Jackson Fans Flock To Apollo Tribute - PHOTOS

Thousands of Michael Jackson fans paid tribute to the singer's career yesterday at the New York theatre where it began more than four decades ago.

The Apollo theatre in Harlem held six hours of memorial services, the last of which was attended by director Spike Lee and Jackson's friend Rev. Al Sharpton.

Sharpton led fans in a minute's silence at 5.26pm – the time of Jackson's death last Thursday.

Lee told Jackson's fans not to “wallow in the negativity” of media reports about the star's personal life and focus on his achievements.

Around 600 fans – who had queued for hours – were allowed into each service. Some waved white flags, while others brought photographs of Jackson.

According to the Associated Press, fans were shown videos of Jackson on a screen above the stage, which was decorated with a black fedora and white glove.

Fans were also allowed to place their own gifts on the stage at the end of each service.

Jackson's relationship with the Apollo theatre dates back to 1967, when he and the rest of the Jackson Five performed at the venue's amateur night.

The weekly event is still held at the theatre, with the most recent being held in Jackson's honour.

Michael Jackson - The Apollo Tribute