Don Cornelius, television show host and producer, who is best known as the creator of the nationally syndicated dance/music franchise Soul Train, has passed away today. Reports indicate that Don Cornelius committed suicide. Law enforcement assumes this due to evidence of a "self-inflicted" gunshot wound to the head. An investigation is still pending.
Don Cornelius started Soul Train in the late 1960s when there was no television venue for soul music. The show introduced many African-American musicians to a larger audience as a result of their appearances on Soul Train, a program that was both influential among African-Americans and popular with a wider audience. As writer, producer, and host of Soul Train, Cornelius was instrumental in offering wider exposure to black musicians like James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Michael Jackson, as well as creating opportunities for talented dancers that would presage subsequent television dance programs. Cornelius said "We had a show that kids gravitated to," and Spike Lee described the program as an "urban music time capsule."
Besides his smooth and deep voice, Cornelius is best known for the catchphrase that he used to close the show: "... and you can bet your last money, it's all gonna be a stone gas, honey! I'm Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!" After Cornelius's departure, it was shortened to "...and as always, we wish you love, peace and soul!" and was used through the most recent new episodes in 2006. Another introductory phrase he often used was: "We got another sound comin' out of Philly that's a sure 'nough dilly".
Don Cornelius was an innovator and will truly be missed.
Filed under: Uncategorized
Tags: Aretha franklin, Death, Don Cornelius, Host, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Producer, Soul Train Dies, Suicide
