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Soul Train sponsor and Black hair care pioneer George E. Johnson dies at 99
🇳🇱 Netherlands /Culture & Society

Soul Train sponsor and Black hair care pioneer George E. Johnson dies at 99

From NRC Handelsblad · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • George E. Johnson, a pioneer in Black hair care and a sponsor of the music show Soul Train, has died at age 99.
  • Johnson founded Johnson Products Company, the first Black-led company to be listed on the stock exchange in 1971, and Independence Bank of Chicago.
  • He began his entrepreneurial journey in 1954 with a product to straighten Black hair, aiming to improve upon existing methods and later expanding his business empire.

George E. Johnson, a visionary entrepreneur who championed Black businesses and culture, has passed away at 99. Johnson's legacy is deeply intertwined with the rise of Black entrepreneurship and the celebration of African-American identity.

For the first time, there was a program on TV where African-American singing and dancing were central. Black artists performed R&B, funk, soul – his music.

— Article textDescribing George E. Johnson's initial enthusiasm for the music program Soul Train.

His most significant achievement may be Johnson Products Company, founded in 1954. Initially focused on hair straightening products, the company became a dominant force in the Black hair care market, serving an estimated 80 percent of the market by the 1960s. In 1971, Johnson Products made history as the first Black-led company to be listed on the stock exchange, a landmark moment for Black economic empowerment.

Beyond cosmetics, Johnson's influence extended to finance. He co-founded Independence Bank of Chicago, the first bank led by a Black executive, which he directed until its sale in 1995. His commitment to uplifting the Black community was also evident in his sponsorship of the iconic television show Soul Train. Initially airing in black and white, Johnson's sponsorship ensured the program, which showcased R&B, funk, and soul music, was broadcast in color from 1971 until 2006.

Making Afro-American initiatives big – that characterizes Johnson.

— Article textSummarizing George E. Johnson's life's work and impact.

Born in Mississippi in 1927, Johnson moved to Chicago with his mother seeking better opportunities and less discrimination. He left high school early to work for cosmetics entrepreneur Samuel B. Fuller, where he developed his signature hair-straightening emulsion. Despite early challenges, Johnson's drive and innovation propelled him to become a leading figure in American business, leaving behind a legacy of economic independence and cultural pride.

Can this be done better?

— George E. JohnsonJohnson's thought process after learning about the difficulties of straightening kinky hair from a barber.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by NRC Handelsblad in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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