Remembering Isaac Hayes from Real School People

REAL SCHOOL PEOPLE

Remembering
Isaac Hayes 1942-2008

photo: Wil Allen

Isaac Hayes, Oscar and Grammy winning musician,composer and actor, Isaac Hayes, died today, August 10, ten days before his 66th birthday. He was the main creative force behind Stax Records, and created a memorable mix of classical, big band, R & B and funk with the Oscar winning "Theme From Shaft" in 1971 and brought the "wah-wah" guitar sound in R & B and funk in the 70s into prominence.

He later wrote a string of hit songs with songwriting partner David Porter, including "You Don't Know Like I Know", "Soul Man", "When Something Is Wrong with My Baby", and "Hold On I'm Comin" and B-A-BY. The writing duo formed the group The Soul Children.

Ironically, Hayes filmed a part alongside Bernie Mac, who died yesterday, in the upcoming film "Soul Men" scheduled for release in November 2008.

Trivia:
Was the first black writer to win an Oscar in the composer category.

Telma Hopkins of Tony Orlando and Dawn was one of the backup singers on the theme from shaft who said the famous "Shut Your Mouth!" on the session.

Hayes was the voice of "Chef" on the animated series South Park.

Played several instruments: flute,sax, piano

Was coronated King of the Ada coastal district of Ghana in western Africa where he is a member of the Royal Family

His first paid sessions were with Otis Redding in early 1964

His website