Don Cornelius, the man who founded and hosted “Soul Train,” was found dead Wednesday morning in his Sherman Oaks home, from an apparent suicide. Police were called to the home around 4 AM PT, and found Cornelius dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 75. Cornelius founded “Soul Train” in his hometown of Chicago where it began as a local music variety television show. It became a nationally syndicated show in 1971, and moved to Los Angeles. Cornelius hosted the show until 1993. The show went on with other hosts until 2006, making it the longest running nationally syndicated show in television history.

Among those remembering Cornelius is Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy, who said, "Recording Academy Trustees Award recipient Don Cornelius created a cultural phenomenon with 'Soul Train,' providing a platform for recording artists to showcase their talents to a wider, more diverse audience. He made an indelible impact on American television, one that will continue to be appreciated for generations to come. His beautiful, deep voice and measured pace always sounded warm and familiar to the millions who admired and followed his broadcasts. The music industry has lost a true visionary and trailblazer, and our deepest sympathies extend to his family, friends, and all who welcomed him in their homes for so many years."

Fans and friends can remember Cornelius on the Radio-Info.com Urban/Urban AC/R&B Oldies board.