Isaac Hayes

Isaac Hayes was a Memphis singer-songwriter, part of the legendary Stax Records catalogue and made albums like the classic Hot Buttered Soul.

Soul Singer

August 20, 1942

August 10, 2008

65

Isaac Hayes was a renowned American singer, songwriter, actor, and producer, celebrated for his soulful music. His hit song “Theme from Shaft” won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score, and he appeared in films such as Hustle & Flow and Escape from New York. Hayes also voiced the character “Chef” on the animated TV series South Park and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.

Hayes’ stage name was derived from his grandfather Isaac, who raised him after his mother’s death, and his mother’s maiden name, with an added “e” to create “Hayes.” He was also an ordained minister and founder of the “United Order of Understanding,” a religious group following Scientology’s teachings. Hayes was an active Church of Scientology member, crediting the organization with helping him overcome drug addiction and improve his life. In 1995, he recorded an album, “Isaac Hayes & the Movement,” featuring songs with strong Scientology themes.

As a soul music legend, Isaac Hayes is remembered for his revolutionary soul songs that pioneered symphonic soul and contributed to the Blaxploitation genre. His notable works include the classic album “Hot Buttered Soul,” the compilation album “Greatest Hit Singles,” and appearances in both the original and 2000 remake of the film “Shaft.” Hayes also collaborated with Alicia Keys as a musician and arranger on her debut album “Songs in A Minor.” The documentary “Meet the Musicians Who Gave Isaac Hayes His Groove” posthumously honored him. Hayes was a trailblazer in soul music and a vital figure at Stax Records, the South’s response to Motown.