The celebration of Black music returns after a hiatus, bringing back a brand connected to decades of R&B, soul and hip-hop history
One of the most recognizable brands in American music and television is preparing to return.
The Soul Train Awards will return in 2026 after a two-year hiatus, according to information released by BET.
The awards were created as an extension of the legacy of “Soul Train,” the television program that helped bring Black artists and major movements in American music into millions of homes for decades.
A historic television brand
Created by Don Cornelius, Soul Train made its national television debut in the United States in 1971.
The program became an important platform for soul, R&B, funk, hip-hop and other genres, while also influencing dance, fashion and popular culture.
The Soul Train Awards later emerged as a celebration of the artists and music connected to that legacy.
Returning after a two-year break
The last edition before the hiatus took place in 2023.
Now, BET is bringing the ceremony back at a time when R&B, hip-hop and artists influenced by those genres continue to hold major positions across the American music industry.
Additional details about the new edition, including performers, appearances and award categories, are part of the anticipation surrounding its return.
The comeback also puts one of the most established brands celebrating Black music and culture back on the calendar of major U.S. music awards.
Source: Billboard and BET
