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August 10, 2008

Soul Legend Isaac Hayes Is Dead

hayes.jpg

Funk/Soul pioneer and Oscar-winning musician Isaac Hayes was found dead next to a treadmill in his Memphis home on Sunday. He was 65. Hayes is known to a new generation as the voice of Chef on "South Park." Foul play is not suspected, as Hayes had numerous medical issues. He suffered a stroke in 2006.

Hayes was born August 20, 1942 in Covington, Tennessee to a family of sharecroppers. His career was fully launched in 1969 with his "Hot Buttered Soul" album, which put soul music on the map by lasting 81 weeks on the charts. He bought an estate in East Memphis overlooking the cotton fields where he was raised.

His career high point (before Chef) was his score for the 1971 movie "Shaft," earning Hayes an Oscar, three Grammys and a Golden Globe. Hayes acted in dozens of films and TV shows and began voicing the role of Chef in 1997, but reportedly quit over the show's treatment of Scientology, with which he'd been affiliated since the mid '90s.

Hayes was married four times and had 12 children. He is survived by his wife of three years, Adjowa, with whom he had one child.


NEXT: Clooney: Mac 'Will Be Missed Dearly'

 

My deepest sympathy to family and friends, may his music keep playing.

God Speed,

Jane


- Jane
Posted 08/11/08 01:51 PM
 

I remember Isaac Hayes’ music from the many concerts of his that I saw as a teenager. What a talented, spiritual man, who will now grace the angels with his instrument! I don’t know about ‘heroes’, but he AND Bernie Mac were definitely wonderful, talented, beautiful people in my book. I will remember them always, and my heart goes out to their families.


- Anonymous
Posted 08/11/08 12:37 PM
 

This is so sad. In this very unfortunate time we must remember the greatness that this man achieved and the joy that he brought into our lives. He was a great talent and a great man, he is already sorely missed.

America lost two heroes in one weekend. But we should all be thankful that we were blessed with the presence of Mr. Issac Hayes and Mr. Bernie Mac. We miss you.


- J
Posted 08/11/08 10:59 AM
 

I am sadden that Mr Issac Hayes have passed, but his music will carried in our hearts forever. My prayers go out to his family and friends during this painful time. He will be missed.


- Johnny Spruill
Posted 08/11/08 12:43 AM
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