Don Cornelius, the legendary host of Soul Train was found dead today in his Los Angeles home from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.  The former host of and producer of Soul Train, Don Cornelius was responsible for maintaining the longest running dance television program in American history. 

From 1971 to 2006 Cornelius and the Soul Train provided entertainment for millions of people in this country and gave a voice to hundreds of new R&B and soul artists.  Don Cornelius was 75 years old.

Soul Train was the TV alternative to the popular American Bandstand that allowed African Americans to strut their stuff in the soul train line while the hottest R&B records of the day played in the background.  The “live” performances from the soul artists propelled the careers of artists like Smokey Robinson, Gladys Night and the Pips and many, many more.  Of course as great as the format of the show was, it was the deep, smooth voice of Don Cornelius that made the show the “hippest trip” on television.  There has never been a host of a show that has been so indentified with a show as Don Cornelius has been identified with Soul Train.

When Don Cornelius stopped hosting the show after over twenty years of service, the Soul Train never really recovered.  As a testament to his importance to the show, viewers never really embraced the Soul Train without its soulful conductor.

Don Cornelius was loved by all and will certainly be missed.  We salute and honor him.