From oversized bell bottoms to massive afros, “Soul Train” is synonomous with Black fashion, soul and above all, music. The TV series, hosted by pop icon Don Cornelius for more than two decades, aired its final episode in 2006 after a successful 40-year run.
However, a new DVD from Time Life will revive the “Soul Train” line, the popular scramble board and nostalgic images that made the show an American institution.
The Best of Soul Train, a three-DVD boxed set, captures the performances, vintage commercials and performances from some of America’s leading entertainers. The DVD also includes a rare performances – some which have not been made public in over 30 years – from performers who went on to revolutionize the music industry, including The Jackson Five, Marvin Gaye, the O’Jays, Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Sly & The Family Stone and more.
In all, there are 50 performances covered in eight hours of classic R&B, funk and soul music from the series’ 40-year history. Michael Mitchell, Time Life vice president of marketing/strategic partnerships, said he looks forward to developing a new generation of “Soul Train” lovers.
“Time Life is proud to bring back one of the most enduring and culturally relevant shows in television history with The Best of Soul Train,” said Mitchell in a statement. “‘Soul Train’ was ‘must see’ television in black households across America in the 70s and it also had strong crossover appeal. ‘Soul Train’ fans have been waiting for years to re-live this exciting time!”
Similarly, Cornelius applauded the new project and said The Best of Soul Train offers a “rare insiders view of the golden era of Soul, marking a classic time and place which can never be duplicated.”