Music Presenters Hall-of-Fame: Inductee #1 >> Don Cornelius

"... and you can bet your last money, it's all gonna be a stone gas, honey! I'm Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!"

Was there ever and will there ever be again a cooler place on TV to catch great music than "Soul Train"? From 1971 to 1993, creator and host, Don Cornelius, brought us the best soul music and more on the syndicated show. Back in the 70s and until college graduation, when I had my heart set on becoming a "DJ"--and if I may be personal, regret to this day I didn't pursue my dream--presenters like Murray the K, Wolfman Jack and Don Cornelius inspired me. On the show, Cornelius was the epitome of reserved cool and he gave many Americans first looks at monumental artists like Al Green, Rick James and The Spinners. His interviews were awesome, his introductions sublime. And what about the Soul Train Dance Line! Apparently, the show went on beyond 1993, as did an awards show, but I stopped watching when he stopped hosting. I was saddened to learn that, at age 72, he was given three years probation for spousal abuse, a terrible crime. But, for the next few moments, let's sit back in our favorite TV room chair and enjoy some "LOVE, PEACE & SOUL"!

"James Brown & Get On The Good Foot":


"Soul Train Dance Line & Jungle Boogie":


"La Belle Sings Lady Marmelade:


"Minnie Ripperton Sings Lovin' You":


"Don Cornelius & Soul Train Audience Interview Marvin Gaye":


"Interview with Al Green":


"Al Green & Sweet Little Sixteen"

EVERY AL GREEN SONG IS A GREATEST HIT

Yes, young folks out there, back in the '70s--feels like the 1870s--I went to an Al Green concert at the long-defunct Westchester Premiere Theater. (Great venue--also saw Barry White, Jerry Lee Lewis, many others there, but, again, I digress.) Al Green was absolutely the coolest performer I'd ever seen to that point. Soul and smooth personified. "Tired Of Being Alone", "Full Of Fire", "L-O-V-E" and on and on. Recently in Memphis, we missed an opportunity to see the Rev. Al in his church, but a great DJ here in NY, John Platt of WFUV-FM, said it was an incredible experience. Whether preaching the gospel or singing about love, Al Green is still and will always be "Mr. Soul."

"Tired Of Being Alone:" "Let's Stay Together": "You Ought To Be With Me": "Sha-La-La":
"Take Me To The River":


"L-O-V-E":


"How Can You Mend A Broken Heart":
Porter Tubb