Style: Soul Train

With the passing of Don Cornelius (September 27, 1936 – February 1, 2012) a few weeks back, it’s time to appreciate the majesty that was Soul Train. Premiering on Aug. 1st 1970 and finally derailing in 2006, Soul Train remains the longest running syndicated TV show in history. Sometimes called The Black American Bandstand (a comparrison Cornelius hated) it opened a window into black music and fashion throughout the 70’s and 80’s. The show would always have a musical guest (Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Shaka Kahn, The Tops, The Temps, etc) who would perform 2 songs and a short interview. And then came the Soul Train Dancers Line – 2 rows of dancers meeting up to dance down the line showing their best moves and finest outfits. As a white kid growing up in Detroit this was astonishing – and the primary reason why I still love The O’Jays hit Backstabber.

"... 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!"

The Soul Train Line

The Jackson 5 - Michael in hat

a more casual Don Cornelius

Aretha Franklin

David Bowie - One of only 2 white performers ever to perform on Soul Train, preps to sing FAME

The Soul Train Dancers

The Line

Sly Stone