(AllHipHop News) Legendary producer/host Don Cornelius was found dead early this morning and his Los Angeles home.
According to reports, Don Cornelius allegedly took his life from a self-inflicted gunshot.
In recent years, the 75-year-old was in failing health and according to various sources, he suffered from dementia.
Don Cornelius helped revolutionize black music when he created televisions longest running dance show, “Soul Train.”
The show aired from 1971 – 1993, with Don Cornelius plan host during those years.
Don Cornelius’ association with Hip-Hop music was fleeting throughout the years.
Although a number of Hip-Hop groups appeared on “Soul Train,” Don Cornelius was admittedly not a fan of the genre.
“[Cornelius] ultimately decided that there was a duty to show the culture as authentically as possible,” according to the “Soul Train” website. “Soon after, the Soul Train Awards developed and while there were unfortunate occurrences at different shows, there was an overall appreciation for the award ceremony recognizing Hip-Hop’s contribution to American culture.”
A variety of rappers have named checked “Soul Train” in their songs, from Eric B & Rakim, to De La Soul.
Legendary rapper Kurtis Blow was the first Hip-Hop artist to appear on “Soul Train”, in 1980.
More details will be released as they become available.