(AllHipHop News) A number of rappers are reacting to the death of Soul Train founder/host Don Cornelius, who was found dead today (February 1) after committing suicide.
While details are still being confirmed, early reports said that Cornelius shot himself in the head in his Sherman Oaks, California home.
“We are overwhelmed with the news regarding the passing of Don Cornelius. Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with his family at this time,” said Kenard Gibbs, CEO of Soul Train Holdings. “He was a true television visionary and his contributions to African American culture, music, and entertainment are incomparable. The outpouring of affection and tributes to his legacy are a true testament to the profound impact that his life’s work had on many generations.”
Don Cornelius is largely credited as being a pioneer in the development of urban culture through music on television.
“Every Saturday morning I looked forward to watching Soul Train, as did millions of other people,” said Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Soul Train Holdings Chairman. “Soul Train taught the world how to dance! Don’s contribution to us all is immeasurable. He will truly be missed. I thank him for trusting me with his Soul Train brand and I will carry on his legacy through it. My condolences to his son and my good friend Tony Cornelius and the entire Cornelius family.”
If the messages on Twitter are indicators, Don Cornelius will be greatly missed by the Hip-Hop community, despite his well known views on the genre.
“JUST WOKE UP TO SOME SAD NEWS, R.I.P. Don Cornelius founder of SOUL TRAIN,” Wyclef Jean said via Twitter.
“Rest in Peace, Love & Soul…Don Cornelius,” Ice Cube said in remembrance of Cornelius.
Don Cornelius had plans to make a movie about the Soul Train legacy in the coming years, but nothing had come to fruition as of late.
“We’ve been in discussions with several people about getting a movie off the ground. It wouldn’t be the ‘Soul Train’ dance show, it would be more of a biographical look at the project,” Don Cornelius told the L.A. Times in a 2010 interview.
“So sad about Don Cornelius,” Russell Simmons Tweeted.
“May u rest in peace and thank u 4 ur platform. U will always be remembered R.I.P. Don Cornelius,” Q-Tip expressed through his Twitter page.
“RIP Don Cornelius…Thank You for all you have done for us…” DJ Jazzy Jeff told fans.
Don Cornelius had just been in the spotlight, when he was featured on a popular episode of TVOne’s “Unsung” featuring Full Force.
The group was supposed to present Don Cornelius with a plaque for his unwavering support throughout the years.
“He couldn’t make it because of root canal he had earlier. I spoke to him early last week too, for 40 minutes,” Bow Legged Lou told AllHipHop.com.
“Don Cornelius and his creation of ‘Soul Train’ and its legacy had a great impact on American culture. Don’s vision allowed for African-American artists to be exposed to people all over the world through the power of television,” said Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, who wrote the #1 theme song for Soul Train.
“We were glad to help Don Cornelius fulfill his dream and legacy by creating the theme song for his hit show. The ‘Soul Train’ and TSOP brands will forever be inseparable. We thank Don Cornelius for his tremendous contributions to the entertainment world.
“Our deepest sympathy goes out to Don’s family and everyone he touched.”
More news as funeral details are announced.
Check out Full Force’s plaque to Don Cornelius, as well as some ads congratulating the legend on his show over the years.
Also below are some Hip-Hop performances from Soul Train.
Heavy D & The Boyz on Soul Train
Run DMC performs Hit and Run on Soul Train
Michael Jackson with The Jackson 5 – Soul Train I Want You Back
The O’Jays perform “Backstabbers”