This train is on the move.
USA Today announced on Monday that Soul Train, the iconic music and dance show created by the late Don Cornelius, has been acquired by BET and Viacom.
The acquisition merges “two quintessential African American brands” that have been pivotal cultural significance.
In 2009, BET helped to relaunch the famed Soul Train Awards.
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Richard Gay, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Operations at BET Networks said in a statement that the merger strengthens the company’s investment across multiple mediums.
“BET Networks is honored to have acquired a brand with such a rich history and unique content that is forever relevant to all segments of our audience. With a Broadway play and a concert tour as examples of opportunities in the works, we look forward to finding engaging and smart ways to grow the brand while preserving its heritage and legacy in music, dance and fashion.”
While details of the purchase are not available to the public, acquisiton rights give Viacom the ability to add to it’s music content library.