African American Music Appreciation Month 2011

African American Music Appreciation Month continues with...

Soul Train, The Hippest Trip in America

Soul Train premiered on October 2, 1971. The first episode included a performance by Gladys Knight and the Pips of "Friendship Train" and "I Don't Wanna Do Wrong." Eddie Kendricks performed "It's So Hard for Me to Say Goodbye" and "I Did It All For You." The Honey Cone performed "Stick-Up" and "Want Ads." Bobby Hutton performed "You're My Only Reason."


Viewers tuned in weekly to get the latest in new dances, fashion and style. Hosted by the legendary Don Cornelius, who was the subject of one of our previous Salutes, Soul Train became a cultural icon. It featured appearances from African American acts like James Brown, LL Cool J, Grandmaster Flash, Public Enemy, Marvin Gaye and so many more!


Don was the first person to put this name on the credits of a television show as Executive Producer and he was the first person to actually own his own tv show. Soul Train continues to hold the honor of the longest, continuously-running first-run syndicated program. Whats more, Don Cornelius' legendary deal for TV ads for Johnson Products FINALLY gave viewers advertisements they could relate to. Who could forget those afro sheen commercials? 


Peep the footage below for a look at the famous soul-train line to the tune of the O'Jays Love Train. 





No African American event is complete without a full blown soul-train line. Yes I know how racist that statement is but in my world, it is also a true statement. I'm not ashamed to admit I look forward to them so I can brush up on my dance skills and show off some new moves! Its not an easy task to dance and move down the line at the same time. 


Peace, LOVE & Soulllllll!!! 

Talented Generation Salutes

Don Cornelius

Platforms

Bell bottoms

Afros

Live performances

Unforgettable Line Dancing

Ring any bells??

Don Cornelius is responsible for bringing these things to the forefront via his widely influential production of Soul Train.

Soul Train premiered on October 2, 1971. The first episode included a performance by Gladys Knight and the Pips of "Friendship Train" and "I Don't Wanna Do Wrong." Eddie Kendricks performed "It's So Hard for Me to Say Goodbye" and "I Did It All For You." The Honey Cone performed "Stick-Up" and "Want Ads." Bobby Hutton performed "You're My Only Reason."

During the heyday of Soul Train in the 1970s and 1980s, the program was widely influential among younger African Americans, many of whom turned to it not only to hear the latest songs by well-known black artists but also for clues about the latest fashions and dance trends. Moreover, for many white Americans in that era who were not living in areas that were racially diverse, Soul Train provided a unique window into black culture. Some commentators have called Soul Train a "black American Bandstand." Cornelius helped bring many African-American musical artists to a larger audience as a result of their appearances on Soul Train, a program that is tremendously influential and popular among African-Americans.

In years on air, Soul Train continues to hold the honor of the longest, continuously-running first-run syndicated program.

Countless artists performed on the show and loyal viewers (including myself) tuned in religiously every Saturday morning.

For good times, check out this footage of the famous soul train line dances (no event is complete without one):

"... 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 soooouuuul!" *holds up peace sign*

In honor of our Don Cornelius salute, I think everyone should get up right now and form a soul train line complete with classic dances from the 70s, 80s, and 90s! Click here for music and dance ideas.

Talented Generation Salutes Don Cornelius!!!!

Out the door...inspirational quote to start your day

Good Morning friends! I hope yesterday went well for all of you. Its time for my favorite part of the day-the "out the door" quote!

Today's inspiration is from the impeccable Don Cornelius:

“It's always a pleasure to find something that matters.”
-Don Cornelius

Make time today to do something you love. You may surprise yourself with how great it makes you feel.