Soul Train Don Cornelius, born September 27, 1936, started out in the insurance business before going to broadcasting school in 1966. He worked as a substitute radio DJ and on TV’s A Black’s View of the News before pitching his idea for a music television program aimed at young African Americans. Soul Train, inspired byAmerican Bandstand, quickly became popular, and spent more than 30 years on the air. On February 1, 2012, at approximately 4 AM, police officials discovered Cornelius’ body at his California home. He had suffered a gunshot wound to the head that officials later stated was self-inflicted. He was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead later that morning. Cornelius is survived by two sons, Anthony and Raymond. Mr Cornelius was an icon. His Soul Train launched the careers of countless Black Entertainers, Singers and Entreperneuers around the world. Our Ambiance Magazine family will miss him dearly.
R.I.P Don Cornelius 1936 - 2012