Robert Johnson: “For him to bring Soul Train to television at the time he did and keep it running for so many years is nothing short of phenomenal. It was literally must-see TV. He will be sorely missed, but he will always be remembered.”

Don Cornelius was found dead at his home in Sherman Oaks, California on February first. Officials believe the seventy-five-year-old shot himself. His son Tony Cornelius told The Hollywood Reporter that father’s failing health may have played a part in his death. He also suggested his father was troubled by a failed marriage and other relationships.

Singing legend Aretha Franklin said she was shocked by Don Cornelius' death. She called it a "huge and momentous loss."

In a statement to CNN, famed producer Quincy Jones called Don Cornelius a giant in the industry. Jones said the man’s “contributions to television, music and our culture as a whole will never be matched.”

(MUSIC: “Never Can Say Goodbye” - The Jackson 5)

JUNE SIMMS. I’m June Simms. This program was written and produced by Caty Weaver. Join us again next week for music and more on AMERICAN MOSAIC in VOA Special English.