2.01.2012

SOUL TRAIN'S DON CORNELIUS DIES OF APPARENT SUICIDE


Don Cornelius

Sad news today... Don Cornelius of "Soul Train" has died of an apparent suicide. Don was 75. Don Cornelius was one of the biggest pioneers in American music. with his show "Soul Train" Don brought Motown Soul Pop R&B Funk and Hip Hop music to the masses.


Before Soul Train we had a few local dance tv shows and of course American Bandstand. But they were pretty dull compared to Soul Train... Check the dancers in this episode featuring one of my very favorite bands WAR.



Personally what I loved most about Soul Train were the dancers! Those kids had all the moves... We tried to copy them as best as we could....



Don's voice was such a deep baritone and had instant recognition when you heard him on the air. Mr. Cornelius made such a huge contribution to many many young lives and I hope he is honored for all his efforts. Hopefully he is in a better place now...RIP


From the LA Times:

A family member of Don Cornelius arrived at his Mulholland Drive home in Encino on Wednesday morning and found the "Soul Train" creator with a gunshot wound to the head, authorities said.

He was rushed to Cedars Sinai Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, according to law enforcement sources.

His death is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department and L.A. County coroner's office. The sources said detectives think it was a self-inflicted gunshot wound but stressed they are still investigating. FULL STORY HERE

Look how cool this show was! American Bandstand never looked this bright!



Press Release

STATEMENT FROM THE RHYTHM AND BLUES FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN DAMON WILLIAMS ON THE PASSING OF SOUL TRAIN CREATOR DON CORNELIUS

“Don Cornelius was a VISIONARY AND PIONEER who will always be remembered for his gift to the world: 'Soul Train.' Without Don's contributions, Rhythm and Blues music would not have had a TV platform to expose artists that has meant so much to the rich history of Rhythm and Blues music. We are beyond grateful to Don for everything that he has done to cement our music and our culture into the hearts and minds of people all over the world.

“Our condolences go out to Don’s family and friends all over the world"

Media contact:
Randy Alexander
Randex Communications
609.280.6140
randex@randexpr.com
www.randexpr.com

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