Don Cornelius, the creator and longtime host of the groundbreaking music show ‘Soul Train,' has died.
According to the Los Angeles Times, police arrived at Cornelius’ Sherman Oaks home around 4 a.m. and found him dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 75.
DON CORNELIUS IS DEAD - A radio news announcer by trade, Cornelius, 75 began moonlighting at WCIU-TV in the 1960s. While there, he toyed with the idea of creating an African-American version of "American Bandstand," Dick Clark's influential music show, with live dancing five days a week. On August 17, 1970, aged 33, Cornelius premiered the first episode of Soul Train on the station, and by the following year, it was being syndicated in other markets.
"Soul Train" would go on to become the longest-running nationally syndicated show in history, airing from 1971 through 2006. Cornelius held down the hosting duties for most of that run, before stepping away in 1993. He remained as the program's executive producer and expanded the brand into an annual awards show.
Don Cornelius, the silken-voiced host of "Soul Train" helped break down racial barriers and broaden the reach of black culture with funky music, groovy dance steps and cutting-edge style for over 40 years.
He was divorced from his wife in 2009 after accusations of battery. Cornelius is survived by his two sons, Anthony and Raymond.
No comments:
Post a Comment