What Is 2019 Soul Train Music Awards

Overview

The 2019 Soul Train Music Awards celebrated excellence in African-American music and culture, spotlighting top artists in R&B, soul, gospel, and hip-hop. The show aired live on BET and honored achievements from the previous year, continuing a legacy that began in 1987.

Hosted by Anthony Anderson for the fourth straight year, the event brought together legendary performers and rising stars. Held at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, the ceremony highlighted both artistic innovation and cultural impact in Black music.

• November 17, 2019: The awards aired live on BET, marking a prime-time celebration of Black musical excellence and style.
• Anthony Anderson: The actor and comedian returned as host, bringing humor and gravitas to the fourth year of his tenure.
• Orleans Arena: Located in Las Vegas, this 9,500-seat venue hosted the star-studded event for the first time in the show’s history.
• Lizzo: Emerged as a breakout star, winning Song of the Year for 'Truth Hurts' and the Best New Artist award.
• Aretha Franklin: Was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, accepted posthumously by family members and fellow artists.

How It Works

The Soul Train Music Awards are determined through a mix of industry input and public voting, with categories reflecting current trends and enduring influence in Black music. Nominees are selected by a panel, while winners in select categories are decided by fan votes.

• Public Voting: Fans could vote online for select categories, including Song of the Year and Best New Artist, increasing audience engagement.
• Eligibility Period: Music released between October 1, 2018, and September 30, 2019, was considered for nomination and awards.
• Category Selection: Over 15 competitive categories were awarded, ranging from Best R&B/Soul Artist to Best Gospel/Inspirational Song.
• Industry Panel: A committee of music executives, journalists, and historians helped finalize nominees in non-voted categories.
• Performance Criteria: Live performances were curated to reflect the year’s most influential tracks and artists, with emphasis on cultural relevance.
• Awards Administration: The event is produced by Dick Clark Productions and BET, ensuring alignment with broadcast standards and brand values.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of major music awards highlights the unique focus of the Soul Train Music Awards on Black artistry and legacy.

The Soul Train Music Awards stand out by centering Black musical traditions and honoring legacy artists. Unlike broader awards, it emphasizes cultural continuity and genre-specific excellence in ways that resonate deeply within the African-American community.

Why It Matters

The 2019 Soul Train Music Awards reinforced the importance of recognizing Black voices in mainstream music and culture. By celebrating both emerging talent and enduring legacies, the event serves as a cultural touchstone.

• Cultural Representation: The awards provide a platform for Black artists to gain visibility and validation in an industry with historical inequities.
• Lizzo’s Breakthrough: Winning two major awards solidified her status as a leading voice in modern pop and R&B music.
• Aretha Franklin’s Legacy: The posthumous honor reminded audiences of her unparalleled contributions to soul music and civil rights.
• Youth Engagement: Public voting options encouraged younger fans to participate, bridging generational gaps in music appreciation.
• Las Vegas Debut: Moving to a new city expanded the event’s reach and demonstrated its growing national appeal.
• Music and Identity: The show underscores how Black music continues to shape American culture, from fashion to language to social movements.

With its vibrant performances and deep cultural roots, the 2019 Soul Train Music Awards affirmed the enduring power of soul, R&B, and hip-hop in American life.