The music world was shocked this morning to the news that Don Cornelius, the creator and host of the legendary ‘Soul Train’ program, was found dead at age 75 in his Los Angeles home of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot.

Beginning his career as a journalist in Chicago, Cornelius began ‘Soul Train’ in 1970 on local television. The show quickly syndicated across the country and production moved to Los Angeles, where it became a national cultural phenomenon.

Every week, ‘Soul Train’ brought African American music, dancing and fashion into the homes of mainstream America, and featured his trademark signoff, “…and you can bet your last money, it’s all gonna be a stone gas, honey! I’m Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!”

Although Cornelius stopped hosting the show in 1993, he remained as a creative force with the program until it ceased production in 2006.

Beginning in 1975, ‘Soul Train’ occasionally featured rock acts who were heavily influenced by rhythm-and-blues and soul music, including Elton John, David Bowie, Michael McDonald, Sting, Don Henley and Robert Palmer. Below are some videos of those performances:

Elton John Performing ‘Bennie And The Jets’ on ‘Soul Train’ on May 15, 1975

David Bowie Performing ‘Fame’ on ‘Soul Train,’ Jan. 3, 1976

The Soul Train Dancers Performing to Van Halen’s ‘Jump’

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