Music industry heavyweight Quincy Jones .”I am shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden passing of my friend, colleague, and business partner Don Cornelius,” Jones says. “Don was a visionary pioneer and a giant in our business. Before MTV there was ‘Soul Train,’ that will be the great legacy of Don Cornelius. His contributions to television, music and our culture as a whole will never be matched. My heart goes out to Don’s family and loved ones.
” R&B legend and record exec Smokey Robinson seconded Jones’ statement that Cornelius left an indelible mark on the music industry. “I regret hearing about the loss of Don Cornelius, it’s a musical tragedy,” Robinson said. “He brought exposure to black talent and a positive image to young black teenagers that had never been done before with his creation of ‘Soul Train.’ He was a friend and we mourn his loss.” The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, has also shared her shock at Cornelius’ death, saying in a statement: “It’s just so sad, stunning and downright shocking and a huge and momentous loss to the African-American community and the world at large. Don Cornelius single handedly brought about a melding and unity of brother and sisterhood among young adults worldwide and globally with the unforgettable creation of Soul Train.”
