“SSSOOOOOUUUULLLL TRAIIINNNNN.” Yeeesss, family, we are on the Train now!! I can still feel the happiness when this came on my TV on Saturday night—seeing that Soul Train line and wanting so badly to be a dancer. The way they moved down that line and displayed the illest of the moves and how they dressed. I was in love with it all. A load of hosts and the special guests who visited, there was nothing like it. But none of the hosts I remember the most, and that is Shemar Moore. 

It set the tone for the culture and paved the way for new and old artists alike. It exposed new waves of sound and dance moves that migrated through the Country. It was the catapult that transformed generations and created a movement of LOVE, PEACE, and SOUL!!!!!!!!! And no matter if it was a new episode or a rerun, we will always be in front of the TV. In this blog, we will explore the history of the Soul Train Music Awards, how the process works, who won the first award, its influence on music and culture, and the story behind the creation of the iconic Soul Train show and the subsequent awards ceremony. 

The Soul Train Music Awards, an annual celebration of R&B and hip-hop excellence, has left an indelible mark on the music industry and cultural landscape since its inception in 1987. This awards show, which recognizes outstanding achievements in black music, has not only elevated the careers of countless artists but also played a significant role in shaping how the world perceives R&B and hip-hop. So, join the Train, and let’s travel through time to a place where all our musical dreams will be etched in time. We will move on down the Soul Train Line and shimmy to the best the awards and the show had to offer.

The Birth of Soul Train

To utterly understand the significance of the Soul Train Music Awards, we must first delve into the history of its parent show, “Soul Train.” In 1971, Don Cornelius, a former radio announcer and journalist, created “Soul Train” as a televised showcase for black music and culture. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, featuring live performances from some of the most talented musicians, singers, and dancers of the time. With its signature dance line, stylish fashion, and soulful music, “Soul Train” became a symbol of African-American excellence.

The Impact of “Soul Train”

“Soul Train” played a pivotal role in introducing the world to the genres of R&B and hip-hop. It provided a platform for emerging and established artists alike, helping to launch the careers of icons such as Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye. The show also became a cultural touchstone, displaying the latest dance moves and fashion trends in the black community.

The Creation of the Soul Train Music Awards

As the influence of “Soul Train” continued to grow, Don Cornelius recognized the need for an awards show that specifically honored the achievements of R&B and hip-hop artists. Thus, in 1987, the first Soul Train Music Awards ceremony was held. This event aimed to celebrate the contributions of black musicians and songwriters and give them the recognition they deserved.

The First Soul Train Music Award Winner

The first-ever Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single went to none other than Whitney Houston for her timeless classic, “You Give Good Love.” This inaugural award set the stage for many more legendary moments to come in the history of the Soul Train Music Awards.

Influence on Music and Culture
The Soul Train Music Awards have had a significant impact on African-American and broader American culture. Since its introduction in 1987, this annual awards show has celebrated and honored outstanding achievements in R&B, soul, and hip-hop music. Its cultural impact can be summarized in several key ways:

1. Celebrating African-American Excellence: The Soul Train Music Awards provide a platform to celebrate and recognize the contributions of African-American artists, musicians, and industry professionals in the music industry. This recognition has helped break down racial barriers and has been instrumental in showcasing the talent within the African-American community.

2. Elevating R&B and Hip-Hop Music: The awards show has consistently spotlighted R&B and hip-hop genres, providing a vital space for these musical styles to gain recognition and respect. As a result, it has contributed to the mainstream acceptance and popularity of these genres, shaping the broader music culture.

3. Setting Fashion Trends: The Soul Train Music Awards are known for their glamorous red carpet and iconic fashion moments. The show has been influential in setting trends in African-American fashion and style, inspiring countless individuals to embrace unique and expressive clothing choices.

4. Preserving Musical History: The awards have become a valuable repository of the history of soul, R&B, and hip-hop music. Through honoring legendary artists and showcasing archival performances, it helps ensure the preservation of this important cultural legacy for future generations.

5. Fostering Community and Inclusivity: Soul Train Music Awards have also played a role in promoting a sense of community and inclusivity within the music industry. The show brings together artists, fans, and industry professionals to celebrate their shared passion for music, creating a sense of unity and common purpose.

The Hosts

Over the years, various entertainers have hosted the Soul Train Music Awards, including Eddie Murphy, Patti LaBelle, and Terrence Howard, to name just a few. These hosts have added their unique flair and charisma to the awards ceremony, making it a memorable and entertaining event. But the original host that lives on in our minds with that smooth, heavy Billy Dee Willimas voice is none other than Donald Cortez Cornelius.

Donald Cortez Cornelius was an American television host and producer, best known as the creator and longtime host of the iconic TV show “Soul Train.” He was born on September 27, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away on February 1, 2012. Cornelius was pivotal in promoting and popularizing African-American music and culture, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. His dance and music show, “Soul Train,” provided a platform for black artists and entertainers, helping them gain mainstream recognition and success. Cornelius’s legacy extends beyond his television career, as he significantly impacted the entertainment industry and contributed to the cultural fabric of the United States.

The Awards Process

Winning and being nominated for a Soul Train Award involves a multi-step process that includes nominations, voting, and the actual award ceremony. Here’s an overview of the typical process:

Eligibility Period:

• The eligibility period for Soul Train Awards typically covers a specific timeframe in the music industry, often spanning from one award show to the next. For example, the eligibility period for the 2023 Soul Train Awards might run from the 2022 show to the 2023 show.

Submission of Entries:

• Record labels, artists, and their representatives submit entries to the selection committee for consideration. These entries may include music releases, music videos, and other relevant content.

Selection Committee:

• A selection committee consisting of industry experts, music professionals, and the Soul Train Awards organizing body reviews the submitted entries to determine the nominees in various award categories. They consider factors such as chart performance, artistic excellence, and cultural impact.

Nomination Announcement:

• Once the nominees are selected, the Soul Train Awards organization announces the list of nominees in each category to the public and the media. This typically generates excitement and anticipation for the upcoming award show.

Voting:

• Voting for the Soul Train Awards can occur through various methods, including:
  • Public Voting: Fans and the general public can often vote for their favorite nominees in select categories through online voting platforms.
  • Industry Voting: Professionals within the music and entertainment industry may have their own voting process to determine sure winners.
  • Combining Results: In some cases, the final results may be a combination of public and industry votes, with specific weightings for each.

Pre-Award Show Activities:

• Leading up to the award show, there may be pre-award show events, such as nominee announcements, press conferences, and promotional activities by the nominees and organizers to generate buzz and interest.

The Soul Train Awards Ceremony:

• The main event is the Soul Train Awards ceremony, where winners in each category are announced. The ceremony features performances, unique tributes, and celebrity appearances.
• The winners are presented with the iconic Soul Train trophy to celebrate their achievements.

Acceptance Speeches and Celebrations:

• Winners have the opportunity to make acceptance speeches, thanking their fans, colleagues, and supporters. They may also celebrate their wins at after-parties and other industry events.

Legacy and Recognition:

• Winning or being nominated for a Soul Train Award is a significant achievement in the music industry. It often brings added recognition and prestige to an artist or project, contributing to their legacy in the world of R&B and soul music.

Continued Success:

• Winning or being nominated for a Soul Train Award can have a positive impact on an artist’s career, helping them gain more fans, secure record deals, and continue creating and sharing their music with the world.

The process of winning and being nominated for a Soul Train Award involves a combination of artistic merit, industry recognition, and fan support, making it a significant milestone in the world of R&B and soul music.

Final Thoughts

The Soul Train Music Awards stand as a testament to the power of black music and culture. From its humble beginnings on the “Soul Train” television show to its status as a prestigious awards ceremony, it has consistently celebrated the excellence of R&B and hip-hop. Through its recognition of outstanding artists and contributions to the music industry, the Soul Train Music Awards have left an indelible mark on the world of music and culture, continuing to influence and inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.

In summary, the Soul Train Music Awards have made a significant impact on culture by promoting African-American excellence in music, elevating specific musical genres, influencing fashion trends, preserving musical history, and fostering a sense of community and inclusivity within the industry.