Don Cornelius

Graduated from DuSable High School in Chicago, Illinois, in 1954.

Discovered by WVON Radio personality Ed Cobb. In the mid-1960s, Cobb while driving ran a traffic violation and was pulled over by Chicago Police officer Don Cornelius. While officer Cornelius was asking him the typical traffic stop questions, Cobb noticed his unique speaking voice and told him that he was in the wrong profession. Cobb suggested that Cornelius come down to the radio station and make a demo tape. Don took him up on it and was hired as an announcer.

Began and hosted his show, "Soul Train" (1971), now in its 34th year, on October 2, 1971. It is the longest-running first-run syndicated show in the history of television. His son, Tony Cornelius, who was formerly married to actress Amy Hunter, is the line producer of his show.

He once danced with Mary Wilson on the "Soul Train" (1971) line, throughout the show's 35-year-run.

His show "Soul Train" (1971) was inspired by "Bandstand" (1952), a show that featured a variety of bands that was hosted by Dick Clark.

One-time guest on "Soul Train" (1971), Arsenio Hall was said to be a teenage television hero of Cornelius'.

Used $400 of his money to produced and create "Soul Train" (1971), which was an African-American dance program.

Hosted "Soul Train" (1971) for 22 of the show's 35 years. In that time, he introduced many unfamiliar artists to a larger audience who would go on to become even more successful, among them are: Gladys Knight (his first guest), Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Barry White, Melba Moore, Al Green, Donna Summer and Mariah Carey.

Passed away on the same day as David Peaston who gave one of his first professional performances on national television courtesy of "Soul Train" (1971).

Had a brain tumor and underwent successful surgery in 1982.

Sentenced to three years of probation after pleading no contest to misdemeanor spousal battery [March 21, 2009].