As I was pulling into the parking deck at work today, I flipped through the preset channels of my car radio in search of that one last song to give me an extra jolt of energy to jump-start the day. [Mind you, I’d already consumed 12 oz of coffee during the commute–but I digress.] And just when began to pull the key out of the ignition, I caught the tail end of Tom Joyner’s commentary. I couldn’t believe what I’d heard. Don Cornelius had died. Talk about a blow. It’s February 1st and certainly NOT the way I had planned to kick off Black History Month. But perhaps I can turn this tragic event into an opportunity to highlight the positive and remember all the good he brought to our lives.
Donald Cortez “Don” Cornelius was like a friend. Kinda like an older, wiser brother. His presence and contribution to the world of music is the source for a multitude of fantastic memories. He was one of the few “grown-ups” that was actually pretty cool. Or in his words…”hip.” Don gave a musicophile like me one of the best gifts ever as the founder, writer, producer and host of the iconic and ever popular show… Soul Train. For my generation, as well as the ones before and immediately after, Soul Train served many purposes. It was like a block party, dance school, live concert, fashion show and weekly soap opera all wrapped into one. No Saturday morning was complete until you solved the word puzzle on the Scramble Board or made your way down the longest
hallway in the house which doubled as your very own Soul Train line.
While researching his background tonight, I found that Mr.Cornelius got his start as journalist. I’d forgotten that piece of his history. Perhaps that’s why I can relate to him and understand the ear he had for MUSIC. Over the course of his lifetime, he was responsible for catapulting dozens of careers on the soul music scene. You don’t need me to name them…just go back and watch the old episodes for reference.
Each week, Don Cornelius represented our people and made sure that our style, our talk, our dances…OUR SOUND made its way into the spotlight of mainstream America. I’m sure there will be many things written and said regarding his passing. But I refuse to allow them to tarnish the memories I have of the dapper dude from Chicago with the super-deep, velvety voice.
So, in wrapping up this post, I think it’s befitting to use the phrase that Don often used to close out many of his shows, “… and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!” You will be missed Mr. Cornelius, but we thank you!
Until Next Time…I’m raising my right fist, sharing a little theme music and “…you can bet your last money, it’s all gonna be a stone gas, honey!”
-TL
Don Cornelius (September 27, 1936 – February 1, 2012)
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