Don Cornelius: 1936 - 2012

Soul Train creator died from self-inflicted gunshot wound

UPDATE: Soul Train CEO Kenard Gibbs and Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a Soul Train chairman, both released statements about Cornelius. You can read them below.

The Associated Press confirmed today that Don Cornelius, the creator of the TV show Soul Train, is dead. The cause of death is being reported as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Cornelius was 75.

Police responded to a call about a shooting and found Cornelius at his home at this time. He was pronounced dead at 4:56 a.m. at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

Cornelius’ Soul Train started in 1970 in Chicago and then was picked up as a national program, which aired from 1971 to 2006. Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Barry White all made appearances on the show. Cornelius was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame in 2005.

“I figured as long as the music stayed hot and important and good, that there would always be a reason for Soul Train,” Cornelius told the Associated Press back in 2006.

“We are overwhelmed with the news regarding the passing of Don Cornelius,” said Kenard Gibbs, CEO of Soul Train Holdings. “Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with his family at this time. He was a true television visionary and his contributions to African American culture, music, and entertainment are incomparable. The outpouring of affection and tributes to his legacy are a true testament to the profound impact that his life’s work had on many generations.”

“Every Saturday morning I looked forward to watching Soul Train, as did millions of other people,” said Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Soul Train Holdings Chairman. “Soul Train taught the world how to dance. Don’s contribution to us all is immeasurable. He will truly be missed. I thank him for trusting me with his Soul Train brand and I will carry on his legacy through it.”