SOUL TRAIN Creator Don Cornelius Dead, 1936-2012 [LEAVE YOUR MEMORIES HERE]

I still can't believe that Don Cornelius is dead. Although he lived what many would call "a long life", the suddenness and way he left us felt like an unexpected punch to the gut. Don Cornelius was like everyone's cool uncle. He knew people. He knew music. And most importantly, he knew US.

The Loss of Don Cornelius was a shock to all. As I sit and reminisce about growing up and tuning into Soul Train every Saturday, I can't help but consider the impact Don Cornelius had on music, dance and fashion.... In fact... on American culture. The foresight to push a uniquely Black show into existence in the 70s was a journey that remains a true testament to the belief he had in his idea. Millions tuned into Soul Train to find out the latest dance, hear the latest music and see the finest people connect with US in a way that was uniquely Don Cornelius'.

In the beginning, the timing was right... entertainment was not diluted by the distraction of the Internet. Cities were essentially isolated and largely mysterious to those that couldn't afford the luxury of travel. While growing up in Jersey City, New Jersey, a trip across the Hudson River to New York City was considered "travel" for me. Don't mention cities like Chicago, Los Angeles or Cincinnati to me back then. You could have just as easily changed those places to Japan, London or Kenya and they would have been just as foreign.

When Soul Train burst on the scene, we were focused and we were hooked. There weren't any other shows that talked to us as directly as Soul Train did. MY PEOPLE were dancing, hosting, singing and even in the commercials. Families of all races were glued to the television… everyone anticipating the Soul Train Line. We were just waiting to see what the Asian girl with the long hair was going to do. Or who would be wearing the most outrageous costumes. We all knew that most performers lip-synced their hits, but we didn't care because many didn't try to hide it. Don Cornelius even made lip-syncing cool. When artists did in fact perform live, it was truly something special.

Stevie Wonder serenading the crowd with an impromptu Soul Train call and response tune…

James Brown jamming with his full band for an entire show…

"The Maestro" Barry White performing with his orchestra…

Just… Wow!

Thank you for the memories Don Cornelius.


- LaMont Carson

stay in touch
join our mailing list