Hop on the Soul Train

Written by Jacquelinne Mejia Wednesday, 14 July 2010 13:45

Fans of the ‘hippest trip in America’ can now watch reruns of their favorite Soul Train moments at any time.  

Time Life is commemorating the 40th anniversary of Soul Train with a 3-DVD boxed set entitled “The Best of Soul Train.” These DVDs feature 130 performances, including never -before-seen footage, original Soul Train performances, on-air vintage commercials of the show’s original sponsor, Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen, and much more.

This special collection of performances pays tribute to the performers that gave it its unique spice of soul flavor. An iconic show since its start in 1970, Soul Train was a spring board for many of the nation’s leading soul, R&B, funk, gospel and hip-hop acts.

Viewers can see the show’s creator and long-time host Don Cornelius play basketball against Marvin Gaye, listen to the songs of 50 performances, watch interviews, soul-train dances, and commentaries from the show’s insiders.

Soul Train is often noted as the “longest-running, first run, nationally-syndicated program in American history”. It was started by Cornelius and became an outlet for artists and musicians, especially in the African American community, to distribute their love of music, dance and fashion to a television audience. Cornelius’ catchphrase “…we wish you love, peace and soul” and other sign-off expressions became as familiar to the shows’ followers as the show itself. 

The DVD set will be available at retail stores starting August 31.