Don Cornelius, the silken-voiced host of Soul Train who helped break down racial barriers and broaden the reach of black culture with funky music, groovy dance steps and cutting-edge style, has died. He was 75.
Police responding to a report of a shooting found Cornelius at his Mulholland Drive home around 4am. He was pronounced dead about an hour later at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, according to the coroner’s office. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
If you ever get the opportunity to watch some Soul Train, it is brilliant stuff. Some amazing artists appeared on the show, and Don’s voice was smoother than a twelve year old single malt.
Here’s Bowie on Don’s show – an appearance which helped establish him as a star in America:
