Ep 2. Fame

Season 2 of American Soul continues its exploration of the rise of Soul Train, the iconic music variety show that gave Black artists a platform to showcase their artistry and celebrate Black culture in the 1970s. In episode 2, titled "Fame", the pressures of success and celebrity are examined, as the cast and crew struggle to maintain the show's excellence while dealing with their personal lives.

Don Cornelius (Sinqua Walls) finds himself in a tough spot when he tries to book the biggest names in music for Soul Train's upcoming season. His choices are limited by the corporate sponsors who want to keep the show's image clean and safe, which puts Don at odds with the artists who are more interested in pushing the boundaries of their art.

Meanwhile, the Soul Train dancers face their own challenges as they adjust to their newfound fame. Tessa (Erica Ash) tries to navigate a relationship with a famous rapper who wants to collaborate with her on a new project, while JT (Christopher Jefferson) struggles with the pressures of being a sex symbol and role model for his fans.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise between Don and the artists, as they clash over the direction of Soul Train. Don's determination to keep the show commercially viable conflicts with his desire to promote Black culture, leading to a crisis that threatens to tear the show apart.

At the same time, Tessa and JT must confront their own personal demons, as they struggle to balance their desire for fame with their personal integrity. Tessa's relationship with the rapper becomes strained when his true motives for working with her are revealed, while JT's addiction to prescription drugs threatens to ruin his career and his life.

Amidst all of these challenges, the cast and crew of Soul Train must band together to overcome their obstacles and deliver another season of groundbreaking television. The episode ends on a hopeful note, as Don realizes the importance of staying true to himself and his vision, even if it means taking risks and facing criticism.

Overall, "Fame" is a compelling examination of the cost of success and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity in the face of commercial pressures. With its engaging characters and historical backdrop, American Soul continues to be a must-see show for anyone interested in the history of Black music and culture.