Soul Train was an American musical variety show that aired in syndication from October 2, 1971, to March 27, 2006. During its 35-year history, the show primarily featured R&B, soul, dance/pop, country, and hip-hop artists, although funk, jazz, disco, and gospel artists also performed. Its first host and executive producer were Don Cornelius, who also created the series.
A rerun package under the moniker ‘The Best of Soul Train’ aired for two years following the 2005–2006 season. To acknowledge Soul Train’s longevity, the show’s opening sequences claimed that it had been broadcast nationally for almost one hundred episodes since its debut through 2005-2006. After a production hiatus, Soul Train held that title until 2016, when Entertainment Tonight surpassed it after its 35th season. In 2018, ‘Wheel of Fortune’ surpassed that mark among non-news programs. Since 2016, ViacomCBS has acquired the Soul Train brand, library, and associated events, such as the Soul Train Music Awards and cruises.
Check out these vintage photos to see the best moments of the 1970s Soul Train.
