As the news quickly spread of the unexpected death of Don Cornelius, the man behind the long running music/dance show 'Soul Train', on Wednesday, February 1, 2012, many artists shared their condolences and reflected on how the program introduced soul music to the masses.
Remembered by Friends
Legendary singer Aretha Franklin told press:
"Don Cornelius! It's so shocking and stunning. God bless him. He created a solid and broad foundation for young people and adults alike to socialize, dance and have good clean fun. He united the young adult community single-handedly...Everybody loved Soul Train and appreciated Don!"
Stevie Wonder shared with CNN:
"The first time I ever did 'Superstition' was on his show so it's a sad moment. The two shows that I watched American Bandstand and Soul Train so it's a heartbreak for everyone. Everyone of various ethnicities watched Soul Train...so it was a great thing."
Cornelius' longtime business partner and friend, Quincy Jones, told the Associated Press:
"I am shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden passing of my friend, colleague, and business partner Don Cornelius. Don was a visionary pioneer and giant in our business. His contributions to television, music and our culture as a whole will never be matched. My heart goes out to Don's family and loved ones."
Retired Los Angeles Laker Earvin "Magic" Johnson, who is also chairman of Soul Train holdings, told E! News:
"He was the first African-American to create, produce, host and more importantly OWN his own television show. Every Saturday morning I looked forward to watching Soul Train, as did millions of other people. Soul Train taught the world how to dance!
History of Soul Train
Spanning nearly 35 years, 'Soul Train' still holds the record of the longest running syndicated show on television and the first to be created, produced and hosted by an African-American.
In 1966, Don Cornelius began his career as a disc jockey and news announcer for Chicago's WVON. He later hosted a concert series with various soul acts which he called his "Soul Train". Catching the attention of a local TV station, Cornelius was invited to bring his Soul Train to live television on Chicago's WCIU-TV in 1970.
Serving as the show's writer, producer and host, Cornelius created a much needed platform for R&B/soul artists to perform and a place for young dancers to showcase their talent. 'Soul Train' quickly became successful and in 1971, Cornelius was offered a national syndication deal, which he gladly accepted. He moved the production to Los Angeles, CA and began the popular show's 35-year run.
Along with the musical performers, 'Soul Train' showcased young dancers and created the famous Soul Train line. The program also laid the groundwork for countless dance shows.
"My heart is heavy after hearing the news of Don's passing...I am truly sorry that such an iconic man has left us too soon," former 'Soul Train' host Shemar Moore told E! News. "Don Cornelius was responsible for a show that revolutionized the music industry, introduced the world to many of the biggest superstars of music, showed generation after generation over 40 years how to keep it funky and get your groove on every Saturday morning."
Although 'Soul Train' stopped production in 2006, according to Wikipedia: "Soul Train will continue to hold the honor of the longest, continuously running first-run syndicated program in television history until at least 2016, if and when its nearest competitor, Entertainment Tonight completes its 35th season. If ET does not complete a 35th season, Wheel of Fortune would pass in 2018 if it continues to air."
'Soul Train' hosts include Don Cornelius from 1971-1993, Mystro Clark 1997-1999, Shemar Moore 1999-2003 and Dorian Gregory 2003-2006.
Don Cornelius' Death
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Don Cornelius was found dead in his Sherman Oaks, CA home early Wednesday morning, February 1, 2012, due to an apparent suicide.
Officers responded to a report of multiple gunshots at 12685 Mulholland Drive and found Cornelius with an "apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head". He was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead. He was 75 years old.
Cornelius is survived by his two sons Anthony and Yukon.
Don Cornelius was truly a major contributor to the entertainment industry and will be greatly missed.
As he would say at the conclusion of each 'Soul Train' episode, "As always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul."
R.I.P. Don Cortez Cornelius
September 27, 1936 - February 1, 2012
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