The Soul Train Music Awards have been scrapped for 2008. The annual ceremony celebrates the best in black music and entertainment in North America, and has been running for more than 20 years.

This year's event would have marked the 22nd installment of the Soul Train Music Awards, but the reason behind the cancellation has yet to be disclosed.

Last year's ceremony lacked the presence of the main nominees, including John Legend, Gnarls Barkley and superstars Beyonce Knowles and Mary J. Blige, after scheduling conflicts meant they were unable to attend the event.

However, the awards show - which usually takes place a few weeks after the prestigious Grammy Awards - has also been under increased scrutiny since Soul Train, the TV dance show it was based on, was brought to an end in 2006.

It is currently unclear whether future Soul Train Music Awards would be affected by the 2008 announcement.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)