BET Networks today (April 4) announces its acquisition of Soul Train from InterMedia Partners and The Yucaipa Companies.

The acquisition brings together two important African American brands and further strengthens BET’s investment in urban content across all mediums.

“BET Networks is honored to have acquired a brand with such a rich history and unique content that is forever relevant to all segments of our audience,” Richard Gay, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Operations at BET Networks said in a statement. “With a Broadway play and a concert tour as examples of opportunities in the works, we look forward to finding engaging and smart ways to grow the brand while preserving its heritage and legacy in music, dance and fashion.”

BET re-launched the Soul Train Awards in 2009. Its acquisition of the brand includes ownership of one of the largest libraries of African American, music-oriented content, including over 1,100 television episodes and 40 specials. We’re proud to serve as Soul Train’s newest home.

BET.com is your No. 1 source for Black celebrity news, photos, exclusive videos and all the latest in the world of hip hop and R&B music.

(Photo: Ethan Miller/BET/Getty Images for BET)