In 1970, Don Cornelius used his own money to shoot the pilot for Soul Train in Chicago. Cornelius was tired of negative depictions of Black people in the media, and with Soul Train, he became the change he wanted to see.
Soul Train transformed into a televised avenue for Black art and expression never seen before. For the first time, Black people could see their proud Black selves on screen. With the rise of popular music acts on the show and the famous Soul Train line, Black style spread around the nation.
Soul Train quickly became a hit, and was eventually the longest first-run syndicated TV show in broadcast history. The dancers’ natural hairstyles, platform shoes, colorful vests, and bell bottoms became the cutting edge of Black fashion.
Soul Train married fashion, culture, and music in a way that only Black people could. Its success and influence can still be seen today, as it was the blueprint for similar shows for decades. It all started with Don Cornelius’s vision to revolutionize on-screen depictions of Black people.
Our culture is the originator of cool. We set the trends, and everyone else tries to keep up. Our creativity can help fuel our liberation, allowing us to exist freely and safely as ourselves.