Soul Train Walter Payton

Soul Train Walter Payton: A Dance Legend's Unexpected Connection

Did you know that one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, the legendary Walter Payton, had a surprising connection to the iconic dance show, Soul Train? While not a regular dancer on the show, Payton's life and career intersected with Soul Train in fascinating ways, revealing a side of the "Sweetness" often overlooked. This article delves into that unexpected connection, exploring Payton's personality, his cultural impact, and how his spirit, much like the infectious energy of Soul Train, resonated with a generation. We'll examine his Chicago roots, his athletic prowess, his philanthropic endeavors, and how these elements intertwined with the broader cultural landscape of Soul Train's era. Prepare to discover a fresh perspective on both Payton's legacy and the enduring power of Soul Train.

The Chicago Connection: Shared Roots and Shared Spirit

Walter Payton's story is intrinsically linked to Chicago. He was born and raised in the city, honing his football skills on its streets and fields. This Chicago upbringing significantly shaped his character, instilling in him the work ethic, grit, and determination that would later define his professional career. Soul Train, while nationally televised, originated from Chicago, establishing a significant cultural foothold in the city. Both Payton and Soul Train represented a vibrant, energetic, and deeply soulful aspect of Chicago culture during a pivotal time in American history. They were both expressions of the city's spirit, its dynamism, and its undeniable influence on the national stage. The shared Chicago roots provide a compelling starting point for understanding their unexpected connection. It's a shared heritage of perseverance, resilience, and a deep connection to community.

Beyond the Gridiron: Payton's Charisma and the Soul Train Vibe

Payton wasn't just a phenomenal athlete; he possessed an unparalleled charisma that transcended the football field. His infectious smile, unwavering humility, and genuine connection with fans resonated deeply with people from all walks of life. This approachability mirrors the inclusive and uplifting nature of Soul Train, which celebrated diversity and brought together people from various backgrounds through the universal language of music and dance. Both Payton and Soul Train fostered a sense of community and shared joy, making them cultural touchstones for a generation seeking positive role models and shared experiences. Their appeal wasn't solely based on athletic achievement or entertainment value; it extended to a deeper, more emotional connection with their audience.

Philanthropy and Social Impact: A Shared Commitment to Community

Walter Payton's dedication to philanthropy is legendary. His Walter Payton Man of the Year Award stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to charitable causes and his profound impact on communities in need. This selfless devotion to others aligns perfectly with the spirit of Soul Train, which, beyond its entertainment value, provided a platform for Black artists and fostered a sense of pride and empowerment within the Black community. Both Payton and the show championed the importance of giving back, advocating for social change, and uplifting those less fortunate. Their legacies are intertwined through this shared dedication to improving the lives of others, demonstrating the positive influence that both figures had on society.

The Unsung Connection: A Shared Era of Cultural Transformation

The 1970s and 80s, the era in which both Payton’s football career and Soul Train's peak popularity coincided, were times of significant social and cultural change in America. The Civil Rights Movement's legacy continued to shape the nation, leading to increased visibility and empowerment for African Americans. Soul Train played a pivotal role in this cultural transformation by showcasing Black talent, fostering a sense of pride, and providing a platform for diverse voices. Payton, as a Black athlete achieving unparalleled success, became a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration during this period. Their parallel journeys during this transformative era created an unspoken connection, each contributing to the narrative of progress and achievement.

Beyond the Field and the Dance Floor: Lasting Legacies

Both Walter Payton and Soul Train left behind enduring legacies that continue to inspire. Payton's contributions to the NFL are undeniable, but his impact extends far beyond the gridiron. His unwavering dedication to philanthropy and his commitment to community continue to inspire acts of kindness and service. Similarly, Soul Train's legacy extends beyond its iconic dance sequences. It remains a powerful symbol of Black cultural expression, creativity, and community, influencing generations of artists and shaping the landscape of American popular culture. Their legacies are interconnected, reflecting the power of positive influence and the enduring impact of individuals who dedicated themselves to making a difference.

Ebook Outline: Soul Train Walter Payton

Author: [Your Name/Pen Name]

Introduction: Briefly introduces Walter Payton, Soul Train, and the unexpected connections explored in the book.

Chapter 1: The Chicago Connection: Explores Payton's Chicago upbringing and its influence on his career, comparing it to Soul Train's Chicago origins and cultural significance.

Chapter 2: Beyond the Gridiron and the Dance Floor: Delves into Payton's charismatic personality and its resonance with the inclusive spirit of Soul Train.

Chapter 3: Philanthropy and Social Impact: Compares Payton's philanthropic endeavors with Soul Train's contribution to Black culture and empowerment.

Chapter 4: A Shared Era of Change: Examines the socio-cultural context of the 1970s and 80s, highlighting the parallel journeys of Payton and Soul Train.

Chapter 5: Enduring Legacies: Discusses the lasting impact of both Payton and Soul Train on American culture and society.

Conclusion: Summarizes the key connections and the enduring relevance of both figures.


(Now follows the expanded content for each chapter based on the outline above. This section would be significantly longer in an actual ebook.)


(Chapter 1: The Chicago Connection) [Detailed expansion of the content outlined above, potentially including specific anecdotes and historical context, citing reliable sources]


(Chapter 2: Beyond the Gridiron and the Dance Floor) [Detailed expansion, including analysis of Payton's public persona, quotes, and comparisons to the inclusive nature of Soul Train, with supporting evidence]


(Chapter 3: Philanthropy and Social Impact) [Detailed expansion, including specifics of Payton’s charitable work and the impact of Soul Train on the Black community, with statistical data and reputable sources]


(Chapter 4: A Shared Era of Change) [Detailed expansion, including analysis of the socio-political climate of the time and how both Payton and Soul Train reflected and impacted it. This would involve historical context and relevant social commentary]


(Chapter 5: Enduring Legacies) [Detailed expansion, looking at the lasting impact of Payton's legacy through awards and continued charitable efforts and Soul Train's influence on music, dance, and representation in media. This section would utilize current cultural analysis and long-term impact studies]


Conclusion: [Reiteration of the core thesis and a summarizing statement on the surprising yet meaningful connection between Walter Payton and Soul Train, emphasizing their shared impact on American culture]

FAQs

1. Did Walter Payton ever appear on Soul Train? There's no record of him appearing as a dancer, but his Chicago connection and shared cultural impact creates a compelling link.

2. How did Walter Payton's personality compare to the vibe of Soul Train? Both exuded warmth, charisma, and a genuine connection with their audiences.

3. What philanthropic work did Walter Payton do? He established the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award and dedicated himself to numerous charitable organizations.

4. How did Soul Train impact Black culture? It provided a platform for Black artists, fostered pride, and celebrated Black culture on a national stage.

5. What era did Walter Payton and Soul Train overlap? Primarily the 1970s and 1980s, a period of significant social and cultural change.

6. What is the lasting legacy of Walter Payton? His athletic achievements, his philanthropy, and his enduring positive influence on many lives.

7. What is the significance of Soul Train's Chicago origins? It established a powerful cultural base in a city already rich in Black artistic expression.

8. How did both figures contribute to social change? Payton through his actions and Soul Train through its representation and promotion of Black culture.

9. Why is this connection between Payton and Soul Train interesting? It highlights unexpected intersections of sports, entertainment, and social impact during a significant era.

Related Articles

1. Walter Payton's Greatest Games: A retrospective of his most memorable NFL performances.
2. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award: A Legacy of Giving: An in-depth look at the award and its recipients.
3. The Impact of Soul Train on Black Music: Analyzing the show's role in promoting Black artists and genres.
4. Don Cornelius and the Creation of Soul Train: A biography of the show's creator and its early years.
5. Chicago's Cultural Legacy in the 1970s: Exploring the city's vibrant arts scene during Payton's career and Soul Train's rise.
6. The Evolution of Dance on Soul Train: Tracing the styles and trends showcased on the show.
7. African American Athletes as Cultural Icons: Examining the role of Black athletes in shaping American identity.
8. Philanthropy in Professional Sports: A study of athletes’ contributions to charity and community service.
9. The Enduring Power of Television's Cultural Impact: Discussing the long-term influence of television shows on society.


  soul train walter payton: Walter Payton Mike Towle, 2005 Examines the life and career of legendary running back for the Chicago Bears, Walter Peyton, and contains a number of personal testimonies about him from former teammates and coaches, childhood and college friends, fans, business partners, and many others.
  soul train walter payton: Walter Payton Adam Woog, 2015-05-27 One of the greatest all-around running backs in National Football League history, Walter Payton set several league records-including career rushing yards (16,726); most games rushing for 100 or more yards (77); and rushing touchdowns (110)-during his 13-year career with the Chicago Bears. Nicknamed Sweetness by his Jackson State University teammates because of his smooth running style and friendly disposition, Payton was a nine-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL MVP. In 1985, he rushed for more than 1,500 yards to help Chicago capture the most wins in franchise history, with a 15-1 regular season record. In the playoffs, the Bears outscored their opponents 101-10, including a dominating 46-10 victory against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX. Tragically, in February 1999, Payton was diagnosed with bile duct cancer. Less than six months later, he was dead, at the age of 45. Payton's legacy endures today through the charitable foundation that he and his wife, Connie, established in 1989. The Walter and Connie Payton Foundation has provided toys and school supplies to thousands of abused, neglected, and underprivileged children in Illinois.
  soul train walter payton: A Critical History of Soul Train on Television Christopher P. Lehman, 2014-11-26 As a wildly popular local dance show, Soul Train provided a venue for Chicago's soul singers and political activists and gave African American teenagers their first significant chance to see and identify with their peers on television. The subsequent national series garnered even more popularity, establishing producer and host Don Cornelius as one of the most successful pioneers of African American television production. This work discusses Cornelius's role in the evolution of his groundbreaking series from a small, all-black 1970s television show to a lucrative brand name applying not only to the program, but also to awards and various merchandise in the present day. The first two chapters focus on Cornelius's years in Chicago and the initial launching of Soul Train in 1970. The next two chapters explore how the nationally televised, California-based version of the show rose steadily in both popularity and cultural influence among primarily African American viewers, and how Cornelius himself became a rising celebrity during that time. The final chapters illustrate Cornelius's efforts in branching out beyond the dance show through various music-related business ventures, including the Soul Train Music Awards. The work includes interviews with several former cast members and guests, along with a complete chronology of the series and Cornelius's other professional ventures.
  soul train walter payton: Never Die Easy Walter Payton, Don Yaeger, 2001-01-18 Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay. It carries into all facets of your life. It's okay to lose, to die, but don't die without trying, without giving it your best. His legacy is towering. Walter Payton—the man they called Sweetness, for the way he ran—remains the most prolific running back in the history of the National Football League, the star of the Chicago Bears' only Super Bowl Championship, eleven times voted the most popular sports figure in Chicago's history. Off the field, he was a devoted father whose charitable foundation benefited tens of thousands of children each year, and who—faced with terminal liver disease—refused to use his celebrity to gain a preferential position for organ donation. Walter Payton was not just a football hero; he was America's hero. Never Die Easy is Walter Payton's autobiography, told from the heart. Growing up poor in Mississippi, he took up football to get girls' attention, and went on to become a Black College All-American at tiny Jackson State (during which time he was also a finalist in a Soul Train dance contest). Drafted by the Bears in 1975, he predicted that he would last only five years but went on to play thirteen extraordinary seasons, a career earning him regular acknowledgment as one of the greatest players in the history of professional football. And when his playing days were over, he approached business and charity endeavors with the same determination and success he had brought to the football field, always putting first his devotion to friends and family. His ultimate battle with illness truly proved him the champion he always had been and prompted a staggering outpouring of love and support from hundreds of thousands of friends and admirers. Written with veteran journalist and author Don Yaeger in the last weeks of Walter Payton's life, Never Die Easy presents Walter's singular voice—warm, plainspoken, funny, self-aware—along with the voices of the friends, family, teammates, and business associates who knew him best at all stages of his life, including his wife, Connie, and their children, Brittney and Jarrett; his teammate and friend Matt Suhey; former Bears head coach Mike Ditka; and many, many others. Walter made Don Yaeger promise that his book would be inspirational and leave people with some kind of lesson . . . and make sure you spell all the words right. Never Die Easy keeps all those promises.
  soul train walter payton: TV-a-Go-Go Jake Austen, 2005-07 From Elvis and a hound dog wearing matching tuxedos and the comic adventures of artificially produced bands to elaborate music videos and contrived reality-show contests, television--as this critical look brilliantly shows--has done a superb job of presenting the energy of rock in a fabulously entertaining but patently fake manner. The dichotomy of fake and real music as it is portrayed on television is presented in detail through many generations of rock music: the Monkees shared the charts with the Beatles, Tupac and Slayer fans voted for corny American Idols, and shows like Shindig! and Soul Train somehow captured the unhinged energy of rock far more effectively than most long-haired guitar-smashing acts. Also shown is how TV has often delighted in breaking the rules while still mostly playing by them: Bo Diddley defied Ed Sullivan and sang rock and roll after he had been told not to, the Chipmunks' subversive antics prepared kids for punk rock, and things got out of hand when Saturday Night Live invited punk kids to attend a taping of the band Fear. Every aspect of the idiosyncratic history of rock and TV and their peculiar relationship is covered, including cartoon rock, music programming for African American audiences, punk on television, Michael Jackson's life on TV, and the tortured history of MTV and its progeny.
  soul train walter payton: Sweetness Jeff Pearlman, 2012-08-28 The definitive biography of Chicago Bears and Hall of Fame superstar Walter Payton. Based on meticulous research and interviews with nearly 700 contacts, an unforgettable portrait that describes a man who lived his life just like he played the game: at full speed.
  soul train walter payton: Love, Peace and Soul Ericka Blount Danois, 2013-08-01 Love, Peace, and Soul tells the story of the television phenomenon known as Soul Train, a show created in the land of bell bottoms, afros, and soul power; a show that became the touchstone of the Baby Boomer generation. Don Cornelius, host and owner of the show, was one of the coolest cats on television. With his platform shoes, wide neckties, and mellifluous voice, he showed the world just how corny American Bandstand was in comparison. In 2012, fans were shocked to hear one of the most powerful men in the music and television business took his own life. Love, Peace, and Soul is a celebratory, behind-the-scenes collection of anecdotes, stories, and reflections, from the people who were there, about the host, the show, and the power of black music and dance on television. Music and television connoisseurs will enjoy the history of not just Soul Train, but of other shows, including Shindig!, Don Kirshner's Rock Concert, Hullabaloo, American Bandstand, and Graffiti Rock. Entrepreneurs will be interested in Cornelius' humble beginnings with the local version of the show in Chicago, created with his own money. Fans will delight in the lively images and the quirky details. The first mass market book on Soul Train since Cornelius's passing, this volume has something for everyone. Includes afterword by Gary Harris.
  soul train walter payton: Never Die Easy Walter Payton, Don Yaeger, 2001-09-11 Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay. It carries into all facets of your life. It's okay to lose, to die, but don't die without trying, without giving it your best. His legacy is towering. Walter Payton—the man they called Sweetness, for the way he ran—remains the most prolific running back in the history of the National Football League, the star of the Chicago Bears' only Super Bowl Championship, eleven times voted the most popular sports figure in Chicago's history. Off the field, he was a devoted father whose charitable foundation benefited tens of thousands of children each year, and who—faced with terminal liver disease—refused to use his celebrity to gain a preferential position for organ donation. Walter Payton was not just a football hero; he was America's hero. Never Die Easy is Walter Payton's autobiography, told from the heart. Growing up poor in Mississippi, he took up football to get girls' attention, and went on to become a Black College All-American at tiny Jackson State (during which time he was also a finalist in a Soul Train dance contest). Drafted by the Bears in 1975, he predicted that he would last only five years but went on to play thirteen extraordinary seasons, a career earning him regular acknowledgment as one of the greatest players in the history of professional football. And when his playing days were over, he approached business and charity endeavors with the same determination and success he had brought to the football field, always putting first his devotion to friends and family. His ultimate battle with illness truly proved him the champion he always had been and prompted a staggering outpouring of love and support from hundreds of thousands of friends and admirers. Written with veteran journalist and author Don Yaeger in the last weeks of Walter Payton's life, Never Die Easy presents Walter's singular voice—warm, plainspoken, funny, self-aware—along with the voices of the friends, family, teammates, and business associates who knew him best at all stages of his life, including his wife, Connie, and their children, Brittney and Jarrett; his teammate and friend Matt Suhey; former Bears head coach Mike Ditka; and many, many others. Walter made Don Yaeger promise that his book would be inspirational and leave people with some kind of lesson . . . and make sure you spell all the words right. Never Die Easy keeps all those promises.
  soul train walter payton: The TRiiBE Guide The TRiiBE, 2023-10-24 The TRiiBE Guide is an annual printed magazine created with a goal of connecting Chicago’s communities in a tangible way. We hope to encourage a deep dive into the city’s Black and Indigenous histories, uplifting our forgotten or buried narratives in the mainstream conversation. Originally released in 2021, this new 2023 edition features six new stories. Filled with stories that both highlight the rich history of Black and Indigenous Chicago and reclaim this city for the people who continue the struggles for liberation today, the Triibe Guide is a must-read for all Chicagoans.
  soul train walter payton: OFF THE TRACKS Myron Montgomery, Janis Dasilva, 2024-02-16 An electrifying book about Myron Montgomery. He is the creator of the world renowned ‘Harlem Shake.’ Endearing secrets he learned from his mom he calls ‘Barbara Jean’s Pearls of Wisdom. Marvelous stories of his exciting optimistic journey will entertain everyone. How he landed a famous spot center stage on the iconic Soul Train TV series at 15 years old, enjoy his18 fascinating years. His captivating adventures in high-end Real estate leasing, working for the rich & famous, powerful, and royalty. Working, producing, and recording in exotic countries. Cover acts success, shopping sprees fit for a king. Magical stories in every chapter will leave you gasping for more as you embark on this great dancer’s enchanting life. In addition he captures some behind-the-scenes dirt that is also hilarious on and off the tracks of the hippest trip in America, Soul Train. A special adorable look at the shows iconic creator Don Cornelius who was like an uncle to Myron. Myron was always invited to Don’s exclusive star studded elegant celebrations. Enjoy his celebrity close friendships, and beach front exquisite adventures. Don’t miss this must read!
  soul train walter payton: Chicago by the Pint Denese Neu, 2010-07-01 Perfect for “beer nerds and history buffs . . . This quirky volume . . . uses Chicago-area breweries as an entry point into the city s broader history” (Time Out New York). Chicago is full of colorful history, local legends, and great beer—and they all converge in this pint-sized history of brewing and drinking in the Windy City. Author Denese Neu uses the local craft brewing industry as a gateway to Chicago’s storied past, with tales designed to be read in the time it takes to enjoy a pint or two. So belly up to the bar and learn how Chicago’s best brews were born, and how some of its historic breweries and brewpubs are connected to notable figures from sports legends to bank robbers and more.
  soul train walter payton: Rock'n America Deena Weinstein, 2015-01-27 What is rock? This book offers a new and systematic approach to understanding rock by applying sociological concepts in a historical context. Deena Weinstein, a rock critic, journalist, and academic, starts by outlining an original approach to understanding rock, explaining how the form has developed through a complex and ever-changing set of relations between artists, fans, and mediators. She then traces the history of rock in America through its distinctive eras, from rock's precursors to rock in the digital age. The book includes suggested listening lists to accompany each chapter, a detailed filmography of movies about rock, and a wide range of visuals and fascinating anecdotes. Never separating rock music from the social, political, economic, and cultural changes in America's history, Rock'n America provides a comprehensive overview of the genre and a new way of appreciating its place in American society.
  soul train walter payton: Sports Illustrated: Halls of Fame Editors of Sports Illustrated, 2002-05-01 Sporting Halls of Fame have been the repositories for the memories, highlights and legends of Americas favorite games since 1939, when the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum was established in picturesque Cooperstown, New York.Now for the first time, all of the history, color and lore of the 12 most prominent Halls of Fame in North America are collected in one handsome volume.
  soul train walter payton: African Americans in Sports David K. Wiggins, 2015-03-26 This two-volume set features 400 articles on African-Americans in sports, including biographical entries as well as entries on events, tournaments, leagues, clubs, films, and associations. The entries cover all professional, amateur, and college sports such as baseball, tennis, and golf.
  soul train walter payton: Haunted Aurora Diane A. Ladley, 2010-10-01 The fascinating ghost stories behind Illinois’s “City of Cemeteries”—photos included! Aurora was the first Illinois city to have electric streetlights, but a dark history has resisted illumination as stubbornly as the chilly corner of the old roundhouse repels the summer heat . . . Learn why Aurora counts “City of Cemeteries” among its nicknames as Diane Ladley describes the nineteenth-century doctor suspected of trading bodies between his cancer center and a neighboring graveyard. Other eerie legends and strange stories revealed in this book include the marauding brave brought to justice in the Devil’s Cave by his own tribe, the sweet legacy of NFL great Walter Payton, and the elephants that saved a circus from a tornado.
  soul train walter payton: The Sports 100 Bert Randolph Sugar, 1997 Called the Guru of Sports, Burt Randolph Sugar has covered the sports scene for more than three decades, both in print and on television. In this book Sugar has attempted what no sportswriter has ever dared to do: He has selected those athletes whom he considers the best who ever played throughout the history of sports. Whether it's baseball, football, track and field, or any other sport, Sugar not only selects the greatest athletes, but ranks them according to their achievements. Over the years, the world of sports has served up countless legendary figures -- male and female. While readers may quarrel over his rankings: Babe Ruth (5), Joe Louis (58), Ben Hogan (29), Martina Navratilova (38), Larry Bird (48), and others, they will surely appreciate the incisive Sugar-style profiles of those heroes. The Sports 100 is a benchmark of those considered great. It will find its way into every bar argument and is the perfect addition to any sport fan's library.
  soul train walter payton: Don't Stop Believin' Erin Balser, Suzanne Gardner, 2010-12-17 Don't Stop Believin' pays tribute to the glorious mash-up of music, comedy, drama and social commentary that has put Glee and its band of misfits in the spotlight--Page 4 of cover
  soul train walter payton: Soul Train Questlove, 2013-12-03 From Ahmir Questlove Thompson of the award-winning hip-hop group the Roots, comes this vibrant book commemorating the legacy of Soul Train—the cultural phenomenon that launched the careers of artists such as Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson 5, Whitney Houston, Lenny Kravitz, LL Cool J, and Aretha Franklin. Questlove reveals the remarkable story of the captivating program, and his text is paired with more than 350 photographs of the show's most memorable episodes and the larger-than-life characters who defined it: the great host Don Cornelius, the extraordinary musicians, and the people who lived the phenomenon from dance floor. Gladys Knight contributed a foreword to this incredible volume. Nick Cannon contributed the preface.
  soul train walter payton: The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bears Chicago Tribune Staff, 2015-09-21 In Chicago, the Bears grip on the city spans generations and cultures, endures disappointments, and celebrates triumphs great and small. From the team’s humble beginnings to its status as a marquee NFL franchise, the Chicago Tribune has documented every season. The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bears is an impressive testament to Bears tradition, compiling photography, original box scores, and entertaining essays from Hall of Fame reporters. The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bears is a decade-by-decade look at the Chicago Bears, beginning with George Halas moving the team to Chicago in 1921. The Bears soon became known as the Monsters of the Midway, dominating the sport with four NFL titles in the 1940s, seven winning campaigns in the 1950s, and a final title with Halas as coach in 1963. Their 1985 Super Bowl championship transformed the city's passion into a full-blown love affair that continues today. Professional football was practically born in Chicago, nurtured by Halas through the Depression and a world war. The game was made for Chicago, in Chicago, by a Chicagoan. Now the award-winning journalists, photographers, and editors of the Chicago Tribune have produced a comprehensive collector’s item that every Bears fan will love.
  soul train walter payton: Monsters Rich Cohen, 2013-10-29 Monsters: The 1985 Chicago Bears and the Wild Heart of Football is the New York Times bestselling gripping account of a once-in-a-lifetime team and their lone Super Bowl season. For Rich Cohen and millions of other fans, the 1985 Chicago Bears were more than a football team: they were the greatest football team ever—a gang of colorful nuts, dancing and pounding their way to victory. They won a Super Bowl and saved a city. It was not just that the Monsters of the Midway won, but how they did it. On offense, there was high-stepping running back Walter Payton and Punky QB Jim McMahon, who had a knack for pissing off Coach Mike Ditka as he made his way to the end zone. On defense, there was the 46: a revolutionary, quarterback-concussing scheme cooked up by Buddy Ryan and ruthlessly implemented by Hall of Famers such as Dan Danimal Hampton and Samurai Mike Singletary. On the sidelines, in the locker rooms, and in bars, there was the never-ending soap opera: the coach and the quarterback bickering on TV, Ditka and Ryan nearly coming to blows in the Orange Bowl, the players recording the Super Bowl Shuffle video the morning after the season's only loss. Cohen tracked down the coaches and players from this iconic team and asked them everything he has always wanted to know: What's it like to win? What's it like to lose? Do you really hate the guys on the other side? Were you ever scared? What do you think as you lie broken on the field? How do you go on after you have lived your dream but life has not ended? The result is Monsters: The 1985 Chicago Bears and the Wild Heart of Football, a portrait not merely of a team but of a city and a game: its history, its future, its fallen men, its immortal heroes. But mostly it's about being a fan—about loving too much. This is a book about America at its most nonsensical, delirious, and joyful.
  soul train walter payton: Turn It Up Greg Kot, 2013-12-17 For nearly 25 years, Greg Kot of the Chicago Tribune has been reviewing all parts of the popular music world: from indie up-and-comers and underground hip-hop artists to arena-filling rock-and-rollers and celebrity pop superstars. Turn It Up: A Guided Tour Through the Worlds of Pop, Rock, Rap and More is the first-ever collection of Kot's Tribune articles, covering the years of 2000–2013. Beyond informative and entertaining features, concert recaps, and album reviews, Turn It Up covers major issues associated with music and the music industry since the turn of the millennium. Kot delves deeply into issues that matter regarding the essential acts of the 21st century, the business of music as a whole, and the Chicago music scene in particular. With chapters grouped by genre—pop, rock, and rap—and a catch-all final chapter containing insights on digital music, record labels, and the evolving music biz, Turn It Up is an easy-to-follow guide to where the music world has come from and where it is going. Kot's deep knowledge of the subject matter and unpretentious writing will make this a fascinating read for his longtime local fans, as well as music lovers far and wide.
  soul train walter payton: African-American Athletes Nathan Aaseng, 2014-05-14 African Americans have been participating in sports in the United States since the 19th century -- long before many whites accepted them in this context. Since World War II, they have become recognized as competitors in such diverse fields as baseball, boxing, football, track and field, gymnastics, tennis, and golf. The change from whites-only participation to black dominance in many sports did not come painlessly or without the remarkable perseverance of individual athletes. From the early years to the present day, an impressive array of blacks have achieved success as athletes. This book profiles more than 155 athletes. Each enlightening biographical entry concentrates on the events in that person's life related to his or her accomplishments as an athlete and includes a list of further reading on that person. An introduction, bibliography, subject indexes, general index, and 50 photographs round out the resource. Book jacket.
  soul train walter payton: Dante Hall Dante Hall, Bill Althaus, 2004 This beautiful, limited-edition volume is hand-numbered and autographed by Dante Hall. Certificate of Authenticity included, only 500 copies available! X-citing. X-traordinary. X-cellent. Whatever adjective can be dreamed up, it cannot compare to the 2003 dream season Dante Hall enjoyed for the Kansas City Chiefs. From an appearance on the The Late Show with David Letterman to etching his name into the NFL record books, Dante ?The X-Factor? Hall turned the NFL into his own personal playground and helped the Chiefs get back to the postseason for the first time since 1998. As one of the most heralded running backs ever to hail from the football-crazy state of Texas, Hall enjoyed a great deal of success at Texas A&M before being unceremoniously dropped from the team because of a series of parking tickets that drew as much attention as his exploits on the football field.
  soul train walter payton: Great Names in Black College Sports Donald Hunt, 1996 Some of the greatest athletes and coaches in sports history hail from black colleges in America. This book highlights the careers of many of these heroes, focusing not only on their achievements, but also on their contributions to the schools with which they are associated. Photos.
  soul train walter payton: If These Walls Could Talk: Chicago Bears Otis Wilson, Chet Coppock, 2017-09-01 Led by stars like Walter Payton, Jim McMahon, Mike Singletary, William Refrigerator Perry, head coach Mike Ditka, and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, the Chicago Bears in the 1980s were an NFL powerhouse. As anyone who's seen The Super Bowl Shuffle surely knows, they were also an unforgettable group of characters. Otis Wilson, the Bears starting outside linebacker, was right in the center of the action, and in this book, Wilson provides a closer look at the great moments and personalities that made this era legendary. Readers will meet the players, coaches, and management and share in their moments of triumph and defeat. Be a fly on the wall as Wilson recounts stories from those days in Chicago, including the 1985 Super Bowl-winning season. If These Walls Could Talk: Chicago Bears will make fans a part of the team's storied history.
  soul train walter payton: Home and Away Scott Simon, 2001-06-13 The #1 Los Angeles Times bestseller from the host of NPR's Weekend Edition -- absolutely spectacular-wise and intimate, often funny, always touching (Scott Turow) -- now in paperback. In a beautifully written narrative that runs from childhood to adulthood through times of war and peace, Scott Simon movingly tracing his life as a fan -- of sports, theater, politics, and the people and things he holds dear. Sports Illustrated columnist Ron Fimrite says of Home and Away, Rarely do you find in books of this genre a clearer look into mysteries and confusions of childhood . . . moving and often amusing portraits . . . insights into the complex and often corrupt world of Chicago politics, the city being this book's true protagonist. There are compelling scenes from Simon's years as a war correspondent, roving reporter, and political operative . . . There is also an emotional account of Michael Jordan's last championship season with the Bulls that is a book within a book . . . The writing is uniformly superb. This is, in fact, a memoir of such breadth and reach it compares favorably with another book that is allegedly about the nature of sports allegiance, Frederick Exley's A Fan's Notes. And that, believe me, is saying something.
  soul train walter payton: Walter & Me Eddie Payton, Paul T. Brown, Craig Wiley, 2012-09-01 Widely regarded as one of the best football players to ever tie on a pair of cleats, Walter Payton led a fascinating and ultimately tragic life. Told in the voices of those who knew him best, this biography of the Chicago Bears legendary running back tells the inspiring account of the reward of hard work and is an uplifting testament to the power of the human spirit. It is a story of inspiration, redemption, and the deep passion two brothers felt for the sport of football. More than a decade after the untimely death of Walter Payton, his older brother recalls the moments they shared and the continuing sting of the loss of a legend. This glimpse into Payton's life doesn't sugarcoat the issues or glorify the late superstar, but rather it addresses the subjects of suicide, drug abuse, and infidelity head-on with intimate knowledge of the facts. In this candid take, Walter's older brother discloses the true life of man simply known as Sweetness.
  soul train walter payton: Ghosts of Chicago John McNally, 2008 Features a collection of stories that tell of everyday people who must confront their own private ghosts - an accountant who falls in love with a woman who is in love with a man on death row, and a boy whose fascination with movie monsters grows stronger as his mother's pregnancy comes to term.
  soul train walter payton: "Then Madden Said to Summerall. . ." Matthew Shepatin, 2009-09-01 Written for every sports fan who follows the NFL, this account goes behind the scenes to peek into the private world of the players, coaches, and decision makers—all while eavesdropping on their personal conversations. From locker rooms to the sidelines and inside huddles, the book includes stories about Terry Bradshaw, Brett Favre, Dan Marino, Joe Namath, Don Shula, Lawrence Taylor, Johnny Unitas, and Bill Walsh, among others, allowing readers to relive the highlights and the celebrations.
  soul train walter payton: ESPN: The Ultimate Pro Football Guide Shelly Youngblut, 1998-08-12 This guide is truly the ultimate source for pro football trivia, esoterica, curiosities, stats, anecdotes, rivalries, facts, quotes, and recaps; just about what you'd expect from an ESPN publication. Arranged by team, each section lists the most notable games, players, and coaches in team history, and then asks intriguing questions such as: Is Dan Marino or Bob Griese the best Miami Dolphin quarterback of all time Marino by a hair. The Ultimate Pro Football Guide also tells you where to score the best eats and drinks in the respective teams' cities and provides such minutiae as what locals wear to game day, how many times your team has appeared on The Simpsons, and which local columnist you should read on game day. You can't ask for more from a football guide; it makes every team the home team. --Tod Nelson
  soul train walter payton: African Americans in Sports: M-Z David Kenneth Wiggins, 2004 Contains alphabetically arranged entries that provide information about the contributions of African-Americans to sports, covering individual players, sports, teams, institutions and organizations, key personnel, cultural themes, and social issues. Includes photographs and suggestions for further reading.
  soul train walter payton: Serving God and Country Lyle W. Dorsett, 2012-08-07 In World War II, over 12,000 Protestant ministers, Catholic priests, and Jewish rabbis left the safety of home to join the Chaplain Corps, following the armed forces into battle across Europe, Asia, North Africa, and the high seas. They were officers who displayed uncommon courage and sacrifice. They were men of faith under fire. And they would charge straight into Hell to save the soul of a single soldier… Representing America’s three major religious traditions, thousands of volunteers from across the country enlisted as non-combatant commissioned officers to provide spiritual strength and guidance for those fighting men who never knew if they were going to survive to see another day. Armed only with Bibles, Torahs, and the tools of their holy trade, these men of God went wherever the troops went—from the bloody beaches of the Normandy Invasion to the hellish jungles of Guadalcanal and Okinawa in the Pacific. They prayed over men about to march into combat on land, sailors facing Kamikaze attacks at sea, and bomber crews who could neither retreat nor surrender in the air. And, most important and difficult of all, they guided fallen fighting men of every faith as they breathed their last, and gave up their lives in the fight against tyranny. These are the personal stories of some of the bravest and most selfless men who served with the armed forces. Many lost their lives or suffered debilitating wounds while serving as pastors to the troops. All of them battled the pain of separation from their own loved ones as they gave some of the best years of their lives to keep the military personnel spiritually awake, morally fit—and prepared to make the journey from this world to the next without fear or despair, and with the trust of the Almighty in their hearts.
  soul train walter payton: Soul Harvest Tim LaHaye, Jerry B. Jenkins, 2011-03-16 The world is reeling from a great earthquake. As Nicolae Carpathia begins a worldwide rebuilding campaign, his rage is fueled by an evangelistic effort resulting in the greatest harvest of souls the world has ever seen. Meanwhile, Rayford Steele and Buck Williams search for their loved ones who haven’t been seen since before the earthquake. A repackage of the fourth book in the New York Times best-selling Left Behind series.
  soul train walter payton: Congressional Record United States. Congress, 1999 The Congressional Record is the official record of the proceedings and debates of the United States Congress. It is published daily when Congress is in session. The Congressional Record began publication in 1873. Debates for sessions prior to 1873 are recorded in The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States (1789-1824), the Register of Debates in Congress (1824-1837), and the Congressional Globe (1833-1873)
  soul train walter payton: Resilient by Nature Reggie Williams, Jarrett Bell, 2020-09-08 In so many ways, Reggie Williams has had the type of life that people dream of: he starred as an athlete, excelled with an Ivy League education, built a sports empire as part of an iconic corporate brand, achieved global impact as a public servant, and won major honors for his community work. Along the way, Williams glowed on the biggest stages alongside celebrities, business leaders, and social icons. Yet Williams’s life has also presented a nightmare—and a determined mission to score another victory—with the battle to save his right leg from amputation. The residual effects of a fourteen-year career as an NFL linebacker has challenged Williams—who has undergone twenty-eight surgeries for football injuries, including multiple knee replacement operations—to draw on the resilience that has been at the foundation of his rise from the beginning. In Resilient by Nature, Williams provides an intimate account of his remarkable journey while also sharing his unique perspectives on a wide variety of issues.
  soul train walter payton: Household Gods Ted Kluck, Kristin Kluck, 2014-08-15 In the midst of a Christian subculture that idolizes families, an evangelical history of overcelebrating families, and a secular culture that overprograms families, one American family identifies the danger they’re in the midst of and embarks on a radical adventure. Household Gods offers an examination of the culture that spawned family idolatry and the steps we can take to flee this idolatry and escape to the Cross.
  soul train walter payton: Party Music Rickey Vincent, Boots Riley, 2013-10-01 Connecting the black music tradition with the black activist tradition, Party Music brings both into greater focus than ever before and reveals just how strongly the black power movement was felt on the streets of black America. Interviews reveal the never-before-heard story of the Black Panthers' R&B band the Lumpen and how five rank-and-file members performed popular music for revolutionaries. Beyond the mainstream civil rights movement that is typically discussed are the stories of the Black Panthers, the Black Arts Movement, the antiwar activism, and other radical movements that were central to the impulse that transformed black popular music—and created soul music.
  soul train walter payton: Jennifer Hudson Cherese Cartlidge, 2011-06-13 This compelling edition profiles the Golden Globe and Academy Award-winning actress and singer who got her start as a contestant on American Idol. Readers will learn about Jennifer Hudson's humbling beginnings, her time on the televised singing show, American Idol, and her experience as an actress on the big screen.
  soul train walter payton: Esquire , 1986-07
  soul train walter payton: Billboard , 2001-08-25 In its 114th year, Billboard remains the world's premier weekly music publication and a diverse digital, events, brand, content and data licensing platform. Billboard publishes the most trusted charts and offers unrivaled reporting about the latest music, video, gaming, media, digital and mobile entertainment issues and trends.