Growing up in the 1970s, Saturday mornings were a ritual. Cartoons filled the early hours, but around noon, a different kind of magic took over the TV screen – Soul Train. It wasn’t just a show; it was a cultural phenomenon, a vibrant celebration of Black culture that resonated across generations and continues to inspire today. As the iconic voice of Sid McCoy announced, “Soul Train! The Hippest trip in America!” you knew you were in for something special.
Don Cornelius, the charismatic host and creator, was the conductor of this soulful train, delivering not just music but an entire vibe. The early 1970s were arguably Soul Train’s golden era. The show became a platform for R&B legends and emerging stars alike. Imagine tuning in and seeing The Staple Singers, Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Barry White, and Love Unlimited grace your screen. These weren’t just performances; they were experiences that made you want to get up and dance right in your living room. Bands like The Ohio Players, The O’Jays, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes featuring Teddy Pendergrass, and The Manhattans solidified Soul Train’s place in music history. It also championed new talent, launching the careers of Rufus featuring Chaka Khan and LTD with a young Jeffrey Osbourne.
The 1980s brought a fresh wave of energy to Soul Train. Acts like Midnight Starr and Shalamar kept the soul flame burning bright, while the rise of hip-hop found a home on the show with early appearances from pioneers like LL Cool J and Kurtis Blow. Soul Train wasn’t confined to R&B and soul; it was a melting pot of musical genres. Remarkably, artists like Elton John, David Bowie, and Billy Joel crossed over to perform, demonstrating the show’s broad appeal and cultural significance. Even comedy legends like Richard Pryor and blues icons B.B. King and Bobby “Blue” Bland graced the Soul Train stage, showcasing its diverse range.
Beyond the music, Soul Train was famous for the “Soul Train line” and the “scramble board,” engaging segments that became cultural touchstones. The Soul Train line, in particular, was a spectacle of incredible dance moves performed by talented individuals who set trends and inspired viewers. And who could forget the iconic commercials, like the one for Ultra Sheen, “For all nubian queens…”? These elements combined to create a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.
As the show moved into the 1990s, changes occurred. While the original author felt the show’s quality declined with changing hosts after Don Cornelius stepped down, and shifts in format, Soul Train continued its run, adapting to the evolving music landscape. Hosts like Mystro Clarke and later actor Shemar Moore took the reins, and the show remained a platform for soul, R&B, and rap artists, proving its staying power. Originating as a local Chicago teen dance show in the late 1960s, Soul Train’s journey to national syndication and its 30-year reign is a testament to its cultural impact and enduring appeal.
Soul Train outlasted many of its contemporaries, including American Bandstand and Dance Fever, and its influence is undeniable. Don Cornelius’s sign-off, “I wish you love, peace and soul,” became synonymous with the show’s positive message and remains a cherished memory for millions. Soul Train was more than just a dance show; it was a cultural institution that celebrated Black artistry, dance, and music, leaving an indelible mark on television and popular culture.
