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The creator and host of the legendary show Soul Train, [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Don Corneilus[/lastfm] was found dead from a self-inflicted gun shot wound early this morning. Officials are calling it an apparent suicide.

Around 4am, police found Corneilus inside his Sherman Oaks, California home suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Don Corneilus was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The police believe there was no foul play involved, but continue to investigate.

Don Corneilus was known as the founding father of one of music’s greatest platforms, Soul Train. Created in 1965, his show paved the way for many dancers, singers, and performers including [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]The Jackson 5[/lastfm], [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]James Brown[/lastfm], [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Marvin Gaye[/lastfm], [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Aretha Franklin[/lastfm], and more. It was known as the  African-American, American Bandstand. Corneilus served as the show’s executive producer and host for over 22 of it’s 35 running years.

Corneilus previously suffered from many medical issues. He is survived by his two children, Anthony and Raymond.