Top Shelf Life: A Message From the 2011 Soul Train Music Awards

This Sunday, November 27^th The 2011 Soul Train Awards was aired on BET Networks. Many generations grew up watching and listening to Soul Train, tuning in to hear the latest hits, learn the latest dance craze, or even figure out the new and hippest trends. This year marked the Forty Year anniversary of the Soul Train franchise; that was first aired back in October of 1971. The purpose of the annual award show is to highlight the talents while recognizing the best in black music and entertainment. The show has progressed greatly since its first annual award show in 1987, promoting the message of hope, love, peace and SSSOOOUULLL!

This year’s award show was taped in Atlanta on November 17^th and was hosted by none other than the hilarious Cedric the Entertainer. The aspects of the show that I really took heed to was the tributes to the legends. Both Earth Wind and Fire and Gladys Knight were awarded the lifetime achievement awards for not only their contribution to the great music, that we all have come to love, but also their versatility, vision, and significant contribution to individuals’ worldwide.

I choose to focus the message of this post on Madam Gladys Knight’s Legend Award acceptance speech. Tribute was paid through a medley performance of Ms. Knights best hit records featuring the talents of Marsha Ambrosius, Natalie Cole, Chrisette Michele, and MaryMary. But the most significant part was when Mama Gladys’ (A friend in my head, lol) began her speech; she opened with stating exactly how much this award meant to her.

“This is closest to my heart because it comes from my people. Only you know what roads we have had to take to get around in this world. I’ve stood on the shoulders of many people, from the slaves who were brought over on the ship, to the racial injustice fighters such as Martin Luther King.” I believe this is significant because we all must remember that we haven’t done much alone, there are many people who have come before us, truly fought and strived for the freedoms and luxuries that we have today. We all should learn a lesson from Mama Glady’s speech, and not forget the struggle and journeys of named and or unnamed persons who fought, big and small, for equality for all.

Sometimes a simple friendly reminder to not take the little things for granted is what we all need. In everything that we do we should strive honor and not tarnish the memory of the ones who have paved the way.

And in true Soul Train tradition, I must end this post in one way.

"...and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace... and SOUL!"

Red Carpet Arrival Pictures