Don Cornelius

The African-American entrepreneur and icon responsible for the first successful syndicated television entertainment program aimed at black audiences, Don Cornelius created "Soul Train" (WCIU, 1970; syndicated 1971-2006) in order to fill a void in the Chicago TV market. The tall, handsome former disk jockey with the bass-heavy voice displayed considerable savvy and innovation in the development of his show, which found an audience in short order and outgrew its humble origins. Taking "Soul Train" to the West Coast, Cornelius became the first black owner of a syndicated television program and provided an accessible and entertaining showcase for black culture and pride. As the show's profile grew, major talents like The Jackson 5, James Brown, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, Barry White, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin all made appearances, and "Soul Train" became an important cultural force in setting dance and style trends. With "Soul Train," Cornelius created a program that was not only an important and positive cultural influence for black youth, but also a television juggernaut, setting a first run syndication record with its remarkable 35 seasons on air.