When “Souuuuul Train” first premiered on October 2, 1971, the groovy dance and performance show gave Black artists an outlet for their art.

Big-time influential acts like Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, James Brown, and the Isley Brothers graced the iconic stage. Hosted by Don Cornelius, it first aired locally on WCIU-TV in Chicago before taking over TV nationwide.

Popular tracks from Soul to R&B, Funk, Pop, and anything in between were performed on the show as dancers got DOWN. Soul Train played a vital role in giving Black performers the recognition they deserved in the Seventies and beyond.

As a result, the Soul Train Awards were born in 1987. Dionne Warwick and Luther Vandross hosted the ceremony. It’s still something we love and watch every November. But did you know there was a separate one to celebrate Black women’s contribution to music?

Soul Train’s honor to Black women artists – Lady of Soul Awards

Black women have significantly shaped the music industry, particularly over the past five decades. Their influence, from Tina Turner to Donna Summer, Brandy, Beyonce, and more, has not only set musical trends but also inspired generations of music enthusiasts.

So, Soul Train’s Lady of Soul Awards was born to give them their flowers. The first annual show, which aired on August 6, 1995, was a star-studded affair. Xscape, Da Brat, Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, Eve, and others graced the red carpet.

In 1996, MC Lyte won the Best R&B, Soul or Rap Music Video award for her hit single “Keep On, Keepin’ On” featuring Xscape.

The Lady of Soul Awards continued until 2005. After, it became the highest honor given to artists at the annual Soul Train Awards.

In 2023, the award was called The Spirit of Soul to reflect the diversity and inclusion of its recipient, Janelle Monae.