The 1987 Soul Train Music Awards aired live on March 23, 1987 (and was later syndicated in other areas), honoring the best in R&B, soul, rap, jazz, and gospel music from the previous year. The show was held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Los Angeles, California and was hosted by Luther Vandross and Dionne Warwick.

Special awards

Heritage Award for Career Achievement

Winners and nominees

Winners are in bold text.

Album of the Year – Male

Album of the Year – Female

Album of the Year – Group, Duo, or Band

Best Single – Male

Best Single – Female

Best Single – Group, Duo, or Band

Best Rap Single

Best Music Video

Best New Artist

Best Rap Album

Best Gospel Album – Solo

Best Gospel Album – Group, Duo, or Choir

Best Jazz Album – Solo

Best Jazz Album – Group, Duo, or Band

Performers