In Memory of Don Cornelius

Remembering Don Cornelius, the iconic host of Soul Train.

Don Cornelius: (9/27/36 – 2/1/12) - A look back at the life and legacy of Soul Train creator and host Don Cornelius, who died on Feb. 1 from an apparent suicide. He was 75.The legendary host was born in Chicago on September 27, 1936. Cornelius got his start in broadcasting as a journalist on WVON, an African-American talk radio station in Chicago. —Britt Middleton (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Bringing Soul to the People - Cornelius conceived the idea for Soul Train during the civil rights movement after observing that there weren’t any venues for Black music on mainstream television. The show would debut on Chicago’s WCIU-TV in 1970. (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Success Ahead - By 1971, Soul Train was airing nationally, and would continue to do so until 2006. Cornelius hosted the show from its inception until he stepped down in 1993, famously signing off each episode with, "We wish you love, peace and soul." (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Rising Stars - In the 1970s and 1980s, megastar talent — including James Brown, Diana Ross, Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin — made guest appearances on the show. Perhaps even more thrilling was catching a glimpse of a star on the rise, including a young Janet Jackson, who first appeared on the dance-music program in 1982. (Photo: 2001 Tribune Entertainment/Getty Images)Comeon Down the Soul Train - As popular as the musical acts were, audiences were drawn to watching dancers on the show shuffle down the famous Soul Train “dance line,” showcasing their hottest moves. Over the years, the segment helped popularize dozens of dance crazes, including pop-locking, the Breakdown and the Robot. (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

Next Gallery

Where Are They Now: The Cast of In Living Color

13 Photos

2 / 10

Bringing Soul to the People - Cornelius conceived the idea for Soul Train during the civil rights movement after observing that there weren’t any venues for Black music on mainstream television. The show would debut on Chicago’s WCIU-TV in 1970. (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images/ Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

ADVERTISEMENT