🎶 "The hippest trip in America!" 🎶
For the 27th day of Black History Month, I’m celebrating Soul Train (1971-2006)—the legendary music and dance TV show that revolutionized Black entertainment, fashion, and culture.
Created by Don Cornelius, Soul Train wasn’t just a TV show—it was a movement. It gave Black artists a national platform, created iconic dance trends, and became the longest-running Black-focused music series in American history.
From the Soul Train Line to the biggest names in music, Soul Train left a lasting impact that’s still felt today.
Let’s take a trip down the line and explore the legacy of Soul Train!
Te Birth of Soul Train
Before Soul Train, Black music was underrepresented on television. Shows like American Bandstand featured Black artists only occasionally, and Black dancers rarely got airtime.
That changed in 1970, when Don Cornelius, a former Chicago news reporter and radio DJ, saw the need for a show dedicated to Black music and Black culture.
Soul Train debuted in 1971, first airing locally in Chicago before going national later that year.
It became the first nationally syndicated Black music and dance show, bringing soul, funk, disco, R&B, and later hip-hop to mainstream audiences.
Cornelius hosted the show himself, becoming the smoothest MC in TV history, famous for his deep voice and signature sign-off: “We wish you love, peace, and soul!”
At a time when Black culture was often ignored or appropriated, Soul Train provided a stage for Black excellence and helped define the sound of generations.
How Soul Train Changed Black Television & Music
1. The First National TV Platform for Black Artists
Before MTV, BET, or 106 & Park, Soul Train was THE place to see Black artists perform on TV.
The show helped launch the careers of legendary artists, including:
🎤 Stevie Wonder🎤 Aretha Franklin🎤 James Brown🎤 The Jackson 5🎤 Gladys Knight & The Pips🎤 Marvin Gaye🎤 Prince🎤 Whitney Houston🎤 Michael Jackson🎤 New Edition🎤 TLC🎤 Destiny’s Child
For decades, if you were a Black artist, Soul Train was the ultimate stage to reach the masses.
It allowed R&B, funk, disco, and later hip-hop to thrive in mainstream media.
It was the first show to showcase emerging genres like hip-hop and rap, helping artists break into the industry.
Artists often premiered new music on Soul Train, making it a must-watch event for fans.
2. The Soul Train Line – A Cultural Phenomenon
The Soul Train Line became one of the most legendary dance traditions in history.
Two lines of dancers faced each other while one or two people danced down the middle, showing off their best moves.
It became a staple at Black weddings, parties, and family reunions, continuing even after Soul Train ended.
The dance styles featured on Soul Train influenced everything from breakdancing to hip-hop choreography.
If you’ve ever done a Soul Train Line, you’ve participated in a piece of Black cultural history!
3. The Show That Set Fashion Trends
From afros and bell-bottoms in the 70s to bright tracksuits and gold chains in the 80s, Soul Train was a runway for Black fashion.
Dancers and guests rocked the latest styles, setting trends across America.
Artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Janet Jackson debuted iconic looks on the show.
The influence of Soul Train is still seen in modern Black fashion and music videos today.
4. The Impact on Black-Owned Businesses
Don Cornelius was a pioneer for Black business ownership in television.
He owned and controlled Soul Train, making him one of the first Black TV producers to have full creative and financial control over his show.
Soul Train led to Black businesses advertising on TV, including Afro Sheen and Johnson Products, which became the first Black-owned company to sponsor a national TV show.
This paved the way for Black entrepreneurs in entertainment and beyond.
5. Paving the Way for Future Black TV & Music Shows
Without Soul Train, we wouldn’t have:
📺 BET’s Video Soul & 106 & Park📺 Yo! MTV Raps📺 MTV Jams📺 Versuz
And many more shows that celebrate Black music and culture.
The Soul Train Line
One of the most beloved segments of the show was the Soul Train Line. In this segment, dancers formed two lines, creating a pathway in the center. Individuals or pairs would then dance down the "line," showcasing their best moves. This feature became a cultural phenomenon, influencing dance styles and celebrations beyond the show. The Soul Train Line allowed dancers to exhibit their creativity and set trends that resonated with audiences nationwide.
Famous Dancers
Soul Train was a launching pad for many dancers who later achieved fame:
Damita Jo Freeman: Renowned for her energetic and acrobatic dance style, Freeman's performances captivated audiences and inspired future dancers.
Jody Watley: Starting as a dancer on Soul Train, Watley transitioned into a successful singing career, becoming a Grammy-winning artist.
Jeffrey Daniel: Known for his smooth dance moves, Daniel later joined the group Shalamar and is credited with popularizing the "moonwalk" before Michael Jackson.
Rosie Perez: Before her acclaimed acting career, Perez was a Soul Train dancer, bringing her distinctive style to the show.
Fred "Rerun" Berry: With his memorable dance moves and signature suspenders, Berry became a fan favorite and later starred in the sitcom What's Happening!!.
The Scramble Board
Another engaging segment was the Scramble Board. In this game, two dancers were given 60 seconds to unscramble a set of letters that formed the name of a notable performer or figure in Black history. This educational feature added an interactive element to the show, challenging both the dancers and the audience to think quickly and recognize influential names. The Scramble Board highlighted the show's commitment to celebrating Black culture and history.
For a visual trip down memory lane, check out this classic Soul Train Scramble Board segment:
Shows Inspired by Soul Train
Soul Train's success paved the way for several other music and dance programs:
Soul Unlimited (1973): Attempted by Dick Clark as a competitor, this show was short-lived due to its controversial nature and direct challenge to Soul Train.
BET's Video Soul and 106 & Park: These programs continued the tradition of showcasing Black music and culture, providing platforms for artists to reach wider audiences.
Yo! MTV Raps: This show brought hip-hop music and culture to a broader audience, reflecting Soul Train's influence in promoting Black musical genres.
Dance Fever: A dance competition show that capitalized on the dance craze Soul Train helped popularize.
Solid Gold: Featured musical performances and dance routines, echoing the format that made Soul Train successful.
Don Cornelius: The Visionary Behind It All
Don Cornelius was a trailblazer who saw an opportunity to put Black culture on the national stage.
He was the first Black TV host and producer to own his own show.
He created an entertainment empire, proving that Black-led shows could be profitable and mainstream.
He became a media mogul, helping to shape the future of Black television.
His legacy lives on through the music, the dances, and the cultural impact of Soul Train.
The Hosts of Soul Train
Don Cornelius served as the original host from the show's inception in 1971 until 1993, bringing his smooth demeanor and deep voice to the program. After his tenure, the show featured various hosts:
Guest Hosts (1993–1997): Following Cornelius's departure, Soul Train employed a series of guest hosts to keep the show fresh and engaging.
Mystro Clark (1997–1999): Comedian Mystro Clark brought his unique humor and energy to the show during his two-year stint.
Shemar Moore (1999–2003): Actor Shemar Moore, known for his role on The Young and the Restless, added a charismatic presence as host for four years.
Dorian Gregory (2003–2006): Actor Dorian Gregory, recognized from the series Charmed, served as the final host until the show's conclusion in 2006.
The Soul Train Awards & The Show’s Legacy
Even after Soul Train ended in 2006, its impact continues through the annual Soul Train Awards, which honor:
🏆 The best in R&B, hip-hop, and soul music🏆 Dancers and choreographers🏆 Black excellence in entertainment
Many hip-hop and R&B artists today credit Soul Train for inspiring their careers.
Why Soul Train Still Matters Today
🎶 Soul Train wasn’t just a music show—it was a movement.
It gave Black artists a stage.
It created dance moves still seen today.
It set fashion trends that still influence us.
It paved the way for Black creators to take control of their work.
Every time we see a Soul Train Line at a party, hear hip-hop and R&B on the radio, or watch Black-led music shows, we are witnessing the legacy of Soul Train.
Why Soul Train Still Matters Today
In addition to the rich legacy of Soul Train, its cultural impact inspired the creation of the television series American Soul. Premiering on February 5, 2019, on BET, American Soul is a musical drama that delves into the life of Don Cornelius and the inception of his groundbreaking show, Soul Train. The series offers a dramatized portrayal of the challenges and triumphs Cornelius faced while bringing Black music and culture to the forefront of American television.
American Soul
Overview of American Soul
Premise: Set in the early 1970s, the series chronicles Don Cornelius's ambitious journey to create Soul Train. It highlights the struggles of producing a nationally syndicated Black music show amidst the social and political upheavals of the era.
Cast:
Sinqua Walls as Don Cornelius
Jason Dirden as Gerald Aims
Iantha Richardson as Tessa Lorraine
Christopher Jefferson as JT Tucker
Katlyn Nichol as Simone Clarke
Jelani Winston as Kendall Clarke
Kelly Price as Brianne Clarke
Seasons: The show ran for two seasons, with the first season focusing on the years 1971 to 1973, and the second season advancing the timeline to 1975.
American Soul not only dramatizes the behind-the-scenes efforts of producing Soul Train but also captures the broader cultural and societal impacts of the show. It sheds light on the personal sacrifices Cornelius made and the challenges he overcame to celebrate Black artistry and influence mainstream culture.
For a visual glimpse into the series, here's a look into BET's original series American Soul:
Final Thoughts
As we celebrate Black History Month, Soul Train stands as a pillar of Black entertainment that shaped music, dance, fashion, and culture.
If you love stories that celebrate Black success, resilience, and cultural influence, check out my novel series S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™—a story about heroes rising above obstacles to make an impact.
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