The Soul Train Awards 2026 are officially returning after a three-year hiatus. BET announced Thursday that the legendary celebration of R&B and soul music will return this fall with a special homecoming in Chicago.
The show will air Friday, November 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET. For the first time, CBS will also simulcast the Soul Train Awards. BET Her, VH1, MTV2 and Logo will carry the show as well.
Soul Train Awards 2026 Head Back to Chicago
The return to Chicago carries special meaning for the Soul Train legacy.
Don Cornelius launched the original Soul Train in Chicago more than 50 years ago. The program debuted nationally in 1971 and eventually became one of the most influential music programs in television history.
Now, the Soul Train Awards 2026 will be taped in the city where the movement began. BET says the show will honor artists who helped shape R&B and soul while also highlighting the generation carrying the music forward.
BET Promises a New Format
Fans shouldn’t expect BET to simply bring back the old show unchanged.
Connie Orlando, BET’s executive vice president of specials, music programming and music strategy, said the network is reimagining the awards with a new format.
BET has not announced the host, performers or honorees yet. The network says those details will arrive in the coming weeks.
Jesse Collins Entertainment will return to produce the show.
Spotify Joins the Soul Train Awards
Spotify will serve as the exclusive music streaming partner for the returning awards show. Toyota will serve as its exclusive automotive partner.
Spotify called the comeback an important moment for R&B and soul music. The partnership also aims to give artists more opportunities to connect with listeners beyond the television broadcast.
A Major Piece of R&B History Returns
The original Soul Train became an important platform for Black music and culture during its historic television run.
Artists representing R&B, soul, funk, hip-hop, gospel, pop and other genres appeared on the program. The show also introduced generations of viewers to new dances, fashion and emerging artists.
The original television series ended in 2006 after a 35-year run. BET acquired the Soul Train brand in 2016.
The return of the Soul Train Awards 2026 gives the franchise another opportunity to connect that history with today’s R&B and soul artists.
For now, the biggest question is who will take the stage when Soul Train makes its return in November.
KMHP Digital Radio will continue following the Soul Train Awards as BET announces the host, performers and honorees.