Don Cornelius represents an incredible and unparalleled legacy in television, music and dance that will live on forever. Don and Soul Train shined a bright and historic light for our culture. A true visionary, icon, legend and pioneer in every sense; his impact on black pride and aspiration in youth like myself was immeasurable during the peak of Soul Train in the 70?s. Don created, built and opened a door of inspiration, hope and opportunity for street dancers and artists to walk through ““ especially me as my career has always been intertwined with the show because it’s where I got my start. It’s incredible to know he started the show in Chicago with just $400.00 of his own money. What many don’t know is that my father and Don Cornelius knew each other as they were on the AM airwaves in Chicago at the same time when I was a baby; my father doing Gospel and Don Cornelius as a part-time news announcer. I didn’t learn the connection until after I was a dancer on the show. In essence Don Cornelius was already in the fabric of my life before our paths would eventually line-up. Like most black kids in the 70?s Soul Train gave my friends and I something to look forward to on Saturday and to talk about at school on Monday. If you wanted to know what was cool in style, the latest dances or to see new and establirest of Jody’s tribute here
Jody Watley Pays Tribute to Don Cornelius
