Filters
3 items
Sort Featured
Questions
Who created Soul Train?
Soul Train was created by Don Cornelius, who also served as its host and executive producer for decades. He first launched the show in Chicago before it grew into a national phenomenon.
When did Soul Train first air?
It premiered locally on WCIU-TV in Chicago on August 17, 1970, and then expanded into national syndication on October 2, 1971.
What kind of show was Soul Train?
It was a syndicated musical variety program built around live performances and dancing, primarily spotlighting R&B, soul, and later hip hop artists.
What was the Soul Train Line?
The Soul Train Line was a signature segment where dancers formed two rows and took turns dancing down the middle as a performer strutted through. It was described as a variant of a 1950s dance fad known as The Stroll.
What was Don Cornelius’s famous sign-off?
He closed each episode by wishing viewers “love, peace… and soul!” The full send-off included the line that it was “all gonna be a stone gas, honey.”
What was the most famous Soul Train theme song?
The best known theme was “TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia),” composed by Gamble and Huff and recorded by MFSB with vocals by The Three Degrees. It became a pop and R&B radio hit in 1974.
How was Soul Train described in its opening?
The show billed itself as “the hippest trip in America,” a tagline that became closely tied to its identity.
Who performed on the very first episode?
The August 17, 1970 premiere featured Jerry Butler, the Chi-Lites, and the Emotions as guests.
How many hosts did Soul Train have?
Don Cornelius hosted for the bulk of the run, followed by a rotation of celebrity hosts, then Mystro Clark, Shemar Moore, and finally Dorian Gregory.
How long did Soul Train run?
The series ran for about 35 years, concluding on March 25, 2006. It produced more than 1,100 episodes across its many seasons.
Where was Soul Train filmed?
It originated in Chicago, then moved to Los Angeles for most of its run, taping at locations including Metromedia Square, Hollywood Center Studios, and Paramount Studios.
What was the Soul Train Scramble Board?
It was a recurring segment where two dancers were given 60 seconds to unscramble a set of letters. The answer was usually a performer’s name or a notable African American historical figure.
Are there Soul Train Music Awards?
Yes. Soul Train launched its Music Awards in 1987 to honor achievements in R&B, hip hop, and gospel music.
Is Soul Train still on the air?
No, the original show ended its run in 2006. Its legacy continues through the Soul Train Music Awards and archived episodes.
Can you still watch old Soul Train episodes?
Archived episodes have been made available over the years through outlets such as YouTube and Bounce TV, along with various licensing arrangements.