R.I.P Don Cornelius

I woke up this morning only to discover Don Cornelius, host, creator and producer of Soul Train, took his life early this morning. He was only 75 years. It truly saddened me. How can a man filled with so much genius and innovation decide to take his own life?There has to be more to the story that's untold. Mr."Soul Train" himself launched the careers of so many great musicians from James Brown to Elton John to Al Sharpton. He gave them a platform to showcase their talent when no one else would.

Don Cornelius, a native of Chicago, IL, started the show in 1970. The first part of his career he started off as a salesman. He switched gears and his interest grew in television after he saw a void for African-Americans to show the world their talents. His career in television started as a writer for a local Chicago station. From there "Soul Train"was born. The famed show was modeled after "American Bandstand" hosted by Dick Clark. The show was only shown locally in Chicago, Atlanta, Houston and Los Angeles. The show quickly became a success and was nationally broadcast in 1971.

The shows 35 year run changed the lives of so many African-Americans and Americans for that matter. Every single Saturday morning people took a ride on the hippest show. If not for the music, definitely for the trendy styles , dance moves and hair. Don Cornelius shifted the way music television was conducted with this iconic show. He pioneered a new approach to reaching audiences of all levels. He changed the brand of musical artists and allowed them into the homes of millions every single week. Its a sad loss to both the television and music community. As the investigation into his death continues many details will be uncovered about the motive behind untimely suicide. Who knew he was so troubled that he wanted to end it all? Nevertheless, he leaves behind a deeply legacy. It will touch many generations after him. May he rest in love, peace and soul.

Resurgence of Empowering Self

The year two thousand and twelve is the year for African-Americans to empower themselves and be the great people they were born to be. I don't there is a better time to be black. Not just because the President of the United States is black, but because we are doing things our own way. From music, dance, literature, art and medicine we are making a new mark on the world. The African race has come a long way. From chains we now wear crowns. Although we still have a ways to go our progress is noted. For example , black women are starting to embrace their beauty much more. I think that the natural hair movement is much more than women not wanting to put chemicals on their tresses. It signifies that black women no longer want to fit into a box that the media has created. Black women want more freedom. They are finally defining beauty by themselves for themselves.

I am HUGE fan of Tumblr. Thanks to my younger sister I stumbled upon Black Fashion. This page inspires me everyday. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing young black people using style as a language. Expressing their individuality, personality and finesse. The fact that things from two decades ago is making a cameo appearance in modern times is awesome. Black Fashion showcases the style of people of every hue, size, shape and gender. Its quite inspiring. The road map to knowing who you are first starts with being co

mfortable with who you are.

I look at my social community and everyone is following their dreams. They are stepping out on faith and making things happen. So many people in my age range are becoming entrepreneurs , starting beauty and clothing lines, authoring books, becoming philosophers and scholars. The year two thousand and twelve is the year for African-Americans to empower themselves and be the great people they were born to be.

HAPPY BLACK HISTORY MONTH