performances and appearances; legends of yesterday, current superstars and the up and coming stars of tomorrow. Last year's awards were held on Nov. 27 in Atlanta, with Earth Wind & Fire receiving the "Legend Award.” The “Soul Train” name was purchased from Cornelius by a production company called MadVision back in 2008. They have since issued a series of DVD’s featuring highlights from the show and have other plans in the works. Don Cornelius was well off financially, but unfortunately he had some personal problems at the end of his life. In 2009, his troubled marriage with his second wife landed him in court. He was sentenced to three years probation after pleading no contest to misdemeanor spousal battery. In his divorce case that year, he also mentioned having significant health issues. He suffered a stroke and subsequently endured brain surgery. For several years, he has looked gaunt and was apparently in a great deal of pain. At least he was able to enjoy a special moment in June 2011, in time for the show’s 40th anniversary, when the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture hosted a special event and showcased an exhibit featuring a collection of several iconic objects including two 10-feetwide neon signs used on the series, one featuring the program’s signature dancing train and the other displaying the television show’s name. Also in the collection is a “Soul Train Music Awards” sign used during the 2006–2007 awards show. Cornelius, who was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame in 1995 and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said in 2006 he remained grateful to the musicians who made "Soul Train" the destination for the best and latest in black music. The legacy of the “Soul Train” brand will live on, and there are plans to expand into new TV shows, films and maybe even a musical. The 2012 “Soul Train Music Awards” will be held this November in Atlanta and as Don would say, “You can bet your last money, it’s gonna be a stone gas honey!” There will surely be many heartfelt tributes and a lot of great music that night. After all, Cornelius’s example set the precedent for a wave of black entrepreneurship in the entertainment business, and the show that proudly celebrated black music and culture wound up being a major influence for positivity, creativity and sociocultural integration. Don Cornelius, “As always, in parting, we wish You Love, Peace, and Soul !” Cause Magazine
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