Don Cornelius (born September 27, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois) is an American television producer, best known for his role as the host, between 1971 and 1993, of the syndicated television program Soul Train, which he also created and which he still produces through his production company. Cornelius is known for his rather deep voice which was partly responsible for his break into show business. During the mid-1960s he was a Chicago police officer and had stopped local radio personality Ed Cobb for a traffic violation. Cobb noticed Cornelius' distinct voice and gave him an audition at his radio station. He in turn also wore his old fashioned round glasses, which became sort of a trademark as did his afro, which slowly shrank over the years. Cornelius has helped to bring many African American musical artists to a wider audience as a result of their appearances on Soul Train, a program that was especially influential and popular, particularly among black Americans, during the 1970s through the late 1980s.
Quote
The catchphrase that Cornelius used to close the show was: "... and you can bet your last money, it's gonna be a stone gas, honey! I'm Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!" After Cornelius's departure, it was shortened to "...and as always, we wish you love, peace and soul!," although it continued through the most recent new episodes in 2006, in tribute.
Trivia
- In the Corneil and Bernie episode "Don Cornelius," Corneil poses as a "godfather crime-boss guy" named Don Cornelius, though it is completely unrelated.
| Preceded by None |
Host of Soul Train 1971–1993 |
Succeeded by guest hosts |
