“…We wish you LOVE, PEACE, and SOOOOOOUUUULLL!”

I woke up this morning to sad news. Soul Train creator, Don Cornelius, was found dead in his Mulholland Drive home to an alleged self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 75.

Before MTV, before BET…there was Soul Train.  At a time where Blacks rarely graced television screens, Cornelius created Soul Train and in 1971 the show moved into national syndication.  African-American musicians  finally got a chance to showcase their music to a larger audience. Artist such as James Brown*,  Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5* and Mariah Carey*  performed on the show. Everyone wanted to be on Soul Train…and Cornelius made that happen!

Stevie Wonder on Soul Train in 1971

While most kids remember waking up on Saturday mornings to watch cartoons, I remember anxiously turning on the tv to catch a new episode of Soul Train! Yes I wanted to see the next, big performer, BUT I looooved the Soul Train Line! The dance is still seen at weddings, parties, family functions and more! I would try to emulate the moves or just watch in awe. The dancers grooved to the beat and ALWAYS had fun! Aside from the dancing, I liked the fashion! From the 70s with the bell bottoms and afros to the 90s with the overalls and baggy clothing. Everyone could see what fashion and dance style was “in” because of Soul Train.

Check out the soul train line!

Don Cornelius was an icon. He made a huge impact on music, trend and culture with the program.  People of all ages enjoyed Soul Train.  It changed how people saw Blacks and influenced society. So for that, I say thank you Don Cornelius.

We never know what people are really going through so appreciate them while they’re here. RIP Don Cornelius. Gone, But NEVER Forgotten.

Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments.

~Ashley Caprice

Note: *click name to see performance on Soul Train