On this day March 23 1987 the first-ever Soul Train Music Awards aired on WGN celebrating the best in R&B and soul music. Hosted by Dionne Warwick and Luther Vandross the event took place at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Los Angeles California. The ceremony honored outstanding artists who made a significant impact on the genre.
The winners of Album of the Year included:
The Soul Train Music Awards became an annual tradition recognizing Black artists who often went overlooked at other major music award shows. The event showcased unforgettable performances and helped cement the legacy of R&B in mainstream music.
80s insight: Janet Jackson’s Control was a groundbreaking album that established her as a pop icon and was one of the first albums to feature the new jack swing sound.
The winners of Album of the Year included:
- Male Artist: Luther Vandross - Give Me the Reason
- Female Artist: Janet Jackson - Control
- Group: Cameo - Word Up
The Soul Train Music Awards became an annual tradition recognizing Black artists who often went overlooked at other major music award shows. The event showcased unforgettable performances and helped cement the legacy of R&B in mainstream music.
80s insight: Janet Jackson’s Control was a groundbreaking album that established her as a pop icon and was one of the first albums to feature the new jack swing sound.
