What Is 2013 Soul Train Music Awards

Overview

The 2013 Soul Train Music Awards celebrated the legacy and current achievements in African American music across R&B, soul, hip-hop, and gospel genres. Held on December 1, 2013, at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, the event marked a significant return to mainstream television by airing on CBS after years in syndication.

Hosted by Robin Thicke, the ceremony honored artists from the eligibility period of October 16, 2012, to October 15, 2013. The awards were produced by Mad Vision Entertainment in partnership with BET Networks and featured performances and tributes highlighting both rising stars and legendary figures in Black music.

• Robin Thicke served as host, bringing star power following his success with the hit single 'Blurred Lines' earlier that year.
• The event was filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, a city increasingly recognized as a hub for Black culture and music production.
• CBS broadcast the ceremony, marking the first time in years the awards returned to a major broadcast network.
• The 40th anniversary of the original Soul Train TV series was commemorated with special segments and retrospectives.
• Categories included Best New Artist, Best R&B/Soul Male and Female Artist, Song of the Year, and the Ashford & Simpson Songwriter Award.

How It Works

The Soul Train Music Awards operate through a nomination and voting process involving industry professionals, fans, and a review committee. The 2013 edition followed this structure while emphasizing live performances and cultural tributes.

• Eligibility Period: Releases between October 16, 2012, and October 15, 2013 were considered for nomination across all categories.
• Nominations: A panel of music industry experts and data from Nielsen SoundScan determined the initial nominee pool.
• Voting Process: Final winners were decided by a combination of fan votes online and input from an advisory board.
• Categories: Awards spanned 15 competitive categories, including gospel, independent music, and hip-hop.
• Performances: Each act was curated to reflect the diversity and evolution of Black music, from classic soul to modern trap.
• Tributes: A special segment honored Whitney Houston on the one-year anniversary of her Soul Train Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of key award categories and winners from the 2013 Soul Train Music Awards:

The table highlights how established artists like Justin Timberlake dominated major categories, while emerging talents like August Alsina gained recognition. The inclusion of gospel and independent music underscored the awards’ commitment to representing the full spectrum of Black musical expression.

Why It Matters

The 2013 Soul Train Music Awards reinforced the cultural significance of honoring Black artistry in mainstream media. By returning to CBS, the event reached a broader audience and re-established its relevance in an evolving music landscape.

• The broadcast on CBS expanded viewership beyond niche audiences, increasing visibility for R&B and hip-hop artists.
• Justin Timberlake winning Song of the Year validated cross-genre appeal and commercial success in soul-influenced pop.
• The tribute to Whitney Houston reminded audiences of her enduring impact on vocal performance and Black excellence.
• Recognition of gospel artists like Lecrae highlighted the genre’s growing influence in mainstream music.
• Atlanta’s selection as host city emphasized the South’s rising dominance in contemporary Black music.
• The event celebrated 40 years of Soul Train, connecting past legacy with present innovation in music and dance culture.

Overall, the 2013 ceremony bridged generations of music fans, honoring tradition while spotlighting the future of soulful expression.