The 1997 Soul Train Music Awards was held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California on March 7, 1997. The show was hosted by Brandy, LL Cool J and Gladys Knight. It would be the final public appearance for the Notorious B.I.G., as he would be murdered two days after the ceremony.

Special awards

Quincy Jones Award for Outstanding Career Achievements

Sammy Davis Jr. Award for Entertainer of the Year

Winners and nominees

Winners are in bold text.

R&B/Soul or Rap Album of the Year

Best R&B/Soul Album – Male

Best R&B/Soul Album – Female

Best R&B/Soul Album – Group, Band, or Duo

Best R&B/Soul Single – Male

Best R&B/Soul Single – Female

Best R&B/Soul Single – Group, Band, or Duo

The Michael Jackson Award for Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video

Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist

Best Jazz Album

Best Gospel Album

Performances

Presenters