Don Cornelius passes away at 75
Don Cornelius was a man of many trades before becoming the host of South Chicago's biggest dance party. He held down work as an insurance salesman, a TV newsman and a deejay before approaching his station manager at WCIU-TV about a televised dance showcase, which would go onto reach national popularity.
Launched on the cheap, Soul Train debuted in 1970 with low expectations. It soon became an alternative to New American Bandstand, giving young African-Americans something they could watch after school. The daily series became a showcase for R&B acts neglected by other television programs of the time. And it served as a gathering hub where one could learn all the latest and hippest dance moves.
Michael Jackson was a noted fan, and stole his signature Moonwalk from one of the regular dancers on the show. Other notable alumni include Rosie Perez, Jody Watley, and M.C. Hammer. In 1971, Soul Train went into national syndication, and became a ratings hit because of Don Cornelius and his insight into cultural fads.
Don Cornelius left the show in 1993, and it continued until 2006 without him. He continued on as executive producer of the Soul Train music awards, which he oversaw from 1988 to 2007. He also starred in three movies throughout his career, including 1976's Fred Williamson action drama No Way Back, the Meat Loaf musical comedy Roadie, and the 1988 John Cusack/Tim Robbins cult comedy Tapeheads.
Don Cornelius is survived by two ex-wives, and two children.
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BERSERKER
@bawnian-dexeus - I agree. It's so sad, RIP Don Cornelius.
1 year agoby @Number1WolverineFlag
slysnide
RIP Don Cornelius. I recall seeing many reruns of this late night on the informercial channel which used the show to sell re-releases of those classic tunes. Your super suave coolness made the show, and you are already mourned by millions.
[Surprising to hear MJ stole the moonwalk from a "Soul Train" regular. He should no longer get credit for it given the amount of praise & sales that move got him. Never once heard him credit the guy who invented it]
1 year agoby @slysnideFlag
ROFLitschristian
I can't help but wonder why. R.I.P, sir.
1 year agoby @ROFLitschristianFlag
MovieWiz001
R.I.P.
1 year agoby @moviewiz001Flag
Nicholaus XX
@bawnian-dexeus -- Indeed.
1 year agoby @XxNickTheFilmCriticXxFlag
Bawnian©-Dexeus
Such a waste
1 year agoby @bawnian-dexeusFlag